Some families are starting to receive a letter about Educational Psychologist (EP) assessments. You might already have this letter, or you may hear about it from other parent carers.
Here is what is changing.
Here is what is changing.
There have been delays in EP assessments. These are an important part of the education, health and care needs assessment (EHCNA) process. To help reduce waiting times, Bristol City Council is now working with an additional team of EPs called Skylakes Psychology.
This means your child’s EP assessment may be completed by either a Bristol EP or a Skylakes EP. Both are qualified professionals, safely checked to work with children, and follow the same professional standards.
Most Skylakes EP assessments are completed online. This means the EP will not usually meet your child in person. Instead, they will gather information by speaking with you, talking to your child’s school, and meeting your child online if that is right for them.
If a remote assessment is not right for your child, you can discuss this with the EP. Other options will be considered.
It is important to reply when an EP contacts you so your child’s assessment can go ahead. EPs may contact you by email or phone (sometimes from a “no caller ID” number).
We know this process can feel stressful, especially after a long wait. If you need support, you are not on your own.
Questions families are asking
Why is this happening?
There have been delays in EP assessments. Extra EPs are being brought in to help complete more assessments.
Will my child be seen in person?
It depends on the needs of your child. The EP assessments completed by Skylakes are done online (remotely) rather than face-to-face. If you would prefer an in person assessment, just let them know.
Is an online assessment allowed?
Yes. Remote assessments are allowed and follow the same professional rules as in-person assessments.
Yes. Remote assessments are allowed and follow the same professional rules as in-person assessments.
What if online does not work for my child?
You can tell the EP. They can talk with you about other options.
Who are Skylakes Psychology?
They are a team of qualified Educational Psychologists working alongside Bristol City Council EP service. You can read about them here: Skylake
They are a team of qualified Educational Psychologists working alongside Bristol City Council EP service. You can read about them here: Skylake
Is the assessment still good quality?
All EPs:
- are fully qualified
- follow professional standards
- have their work checked
What will the EP do?
They will understand your child’s needs by:
- talking to you
- speaking with school staff
- sometimes meeting your child online
- looking at how your child learns and develops
What do I need to do?
- Reply when the EP contacts you
- Check emails and phone calls
What support is there while we wait?
You can:
- contact Bristol Parent Carers for support and information
- contact SEND and You (SENDIASS) for independent advice
- speak to your child’s school about the support they can provide, ask to read the SEND information report, it might be on the shcool website. Let us know if you need help findng it.