Education, Health and Care (EHC) Needs Assessments
Kingston upon Thames is discussing a 7% rise in EHC plans, contrasting with a decrease in Richmond.
Kingston upon Thames is currently discussing a 7% increase in Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans over the past 12 months, bringing the total to 2,215 plans. This was reported at a Kingston upon Thames Schools Forum meeting in September 2026. In contrast, neighbouring Richmond has seen a 7% decrease in requests for EHC needs assessments during the same period.
Charis Penfold explained at the September 2026 Schools Forum meeting that the difference between Kingston and Richmond is likely due to varying demographics and the prevalence of need in each borough. The threshold for EHC needs assessments is the same in both areas, indicating that the variation is not due to differing application processes.
Key facts
- Kingston upon Thames saw a 7% rise in EHC plans in the last 12 months, reaching 2,215 plans. Source
- Richmond experienced a 7% decrease in requests for EHC needs assessments over the same period. Source
- These figures were discussed at a Kingston upon Thames Schools Forum meeting in September 2026. Source
- Charis Penfold stated the difference is likely due to demographics and prevalence of need. Source
- The threshold for EHC needs assessments is the same in both boroughs. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.