Early Help Assessment and Plan (EHAP)

Observations or situations that might lead to the use of an EHAP

This is not an exhaustive list and should be used together with your professional judgement, knowledge of each child and their family, and your organisation’s safeguarding measures.

  • Where a practitioner observes a significant change or worrying feature in a child/young person’s appearance, demeanour or behaviour
  • A change in general wellbeing and social interaction with others
  • Persistent non/late attendance at childcare or school
  • Being without necessary equipment or clothing such as a PE kit, a coat in cold weather etc
  • A child who appears hungry or where a packed lunch or means of buying lunch have not been provided
  • Where a practitioner knows of a significant event in the child/young person’s life that may have a negative impact such as divorce or bereavement
  • Where there are worries about the family’s home environment
  • Missing developmental milestones or making slower progress than expected
  • A child presenting challenging or aggressive behaviour
  • Experiencing physical or mental ill health or disability (either their own or  within their family)
  • Exposure to drugs/substance misuse or violence within the family
  • Having to undertake caring responsibilities
  • Experiencing family breakdown
  • A child who is being bullied or has become a bully
  • A child who is suffering discrimination or disadvantage for reasons such as race, gender, sexuality, religious belief or disability
  • A child who has become homeless/is living in temporary accommodation
  • A young person expecting a baby or who is already a teenage parent
  • A child experiencing neglect