EHCP - sports/gym

LP79
LP79 Online Community Member Posts: 2 Listener
edited July 2023 in Education and skills
Hi all

my son has just left school after his GCSE’s. He’s had a turbulent time in secondary school due to his needs of adhd with sensory and processing disorder and changed school twice, he was in his last school for 2 years and school became a joy for him, thankfully.  He had stability and aspirations… he’s been at home since the end of June and applied for many jobs as he’s going mad being stuck in the house until he starts college in sept. 

My question is… can an ehcp be changed to involve sports to give him something to do as he’s going mad, would/could this be funded? Not sure how the personal funding part goes

Comments

  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 64,463 Championing
    If you mean for activities outside of college then no, the EHCP won't be changed for this reason. Have you ever heard of the GP exercise referral scheme? You can see more information here. https://www.everyoneactive.com/content-hub/home-workouts/gp-referral/ if he's eligible then his GP can refer him for free.

    If he's not eligible does he claim either PIP or DLA? If so can he use some of that money to pay for gym membership? You will need to google what's available in your area. Some gyms have membership for as little as £15/month.

  • LP79
    LP79 Online Community Member Posts: 2 Listener
    We have never claimed anything for him as we haven’t felt it necessary, he’s struggling with finding work as he’s honest in his applications and getting nowhere, not sure if he should be dishonest but it’s having no structure to his day that he’s struggling with, there’s nothing on offer for kids his age locally to do in a daily basis and he’s declining with his MH due to having no consistency day to day and he’s mentioned that he feels the gym or sports centre would be helpful.  I’m trying to be careful financially as we have had some changes in our life recently.  So wondered if anything could help that way
  • L_Volunteer
    L_Volunteer Community Volunteer Adviser, Scope Member Posts: 7,922 Championing
    I can hear how difficult the lack of structure is for him at the moment @LP79. Is there anyone who can help him with finding work - what are the challenges, in particular, he is experiencing with accessing work?

    Have you looked up local sport/exercise groups - sometimes there can at least be local walking groups that are free where there are also opportunities to meet other people on a regular basis. Services often vary based on your local area though.

    As your son has an EHCP, although sports and gym per se won't necessarily be covered, could you talk to your local authority about the local offer? They might be able to signpost you to resources they are aware of, even if this is not completely what you first picture.

    Please do not hesitate to let us know if we can do anything else to support you. How are you coping with this difficult time? We are all here for you and listening to you if you would like to share more with us :)
  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 64,463 Championing
    It maybe a good idea to have a look at claiming PIP for him. ( assuming he's 16 and over) Although you've never thought it's needed but it will definitely help him financially to do the things he wants to do. It will also help with the extra cost of having a disability can cause. https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/sick-or-disabled-people-and-carers/pip/



Categories