The Learners' Single Point of Access (L-SPA) helpline offers help and support if you have a query relating to a child with additional needs in Surrey.
Both parents and practitioners working with children in Surrey are welcome to call the L-SPA.
It is open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, all year round (except Bank Holidays) on 0300 200 1015.
If you want to talk about a specific named child, you will need parental permission to contact the L-SPA. Any concerns about the safety or wellbeing of a child or young person must be made to the Children's Single Point of Access (C-SPA).
You can find information about L-SPA decision making in the Guidance for parents and professionals to L-SPA processes and practice.
Requesting Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessment
While most children with additional needs or disabilities will have their needs met through Ordinarily Available Provision, sometimes a child or young person's needs are complex and an assessment of their Education, Health and Care needs may be appropriate.
The process for requesting EHC needs assessment differs depending on whether you are a practitioner working with a child or young person, or whether you are a parent or carer requesting an EHC needs assessment for your child or a young person requesting an EHC needs assessment on your own behalf.
You can find information about L-SPA decision making in the Guidance for parents and professionals to L-SPA processes and practice.
Information for practitioners
If you are a practitioner or professional in Surrey supporting a child or young person with complex needs, then you can submit a Learners' Request for Statutory Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment (0 to 25 years) to the L-SPA, using the forms on the Statutory Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment page.
Information for parents and carers
Speak to your child's school, college, nursery or early years setting about your concerns regarding your child's progress and development. They may be able to support your request for assessment or put in place other appropriate forms of support.
If you have already spoken to the school or setting, parents, carers and young people can request an assessment by completing the Request for Education, Health and Care Plan Assessment young person, parent or carer form (DOC).
Once completed, please email the request form to learnerssupport.triage@surreycc.gov.uk
If we decide to do an EHC needs assessment, we will let know first by a telephone call and will send a full written explanation within six weeks from the date of your request.
If you have any questions or issues accessing the form, please contact the L-SPA on 0300 200 1015.
You can also write to Surrey County Council and make a request for an EHC plan.
Information for young people
If you are a young person aged 16 or above, you can request assessment of your own needs by completing the Request for Education, Health and Care Plan Assessment young person, parent or carer form (DOC).