North Somerset Council has been leading the way in rethinking how local authorities deliver Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). Faced with a 95% increase in EHCP demand between 2020 and 2023 – and just 38.2% of plans completed within the statutory 20-week timeframe in 2022 – the council recognised the need for a smarter, more sustainable approach.
Partnering with Agilisys, they co-developed the Agilisys EHCP tool: a generative AI-powered drafting solution designed to help SEND professionals work faster, more consistently, and with better outcomes for children and families.
Built with Caseworkers, for Caseworkers
What sets this partnership apart is how closely the tool was shaped around real-world practice. Weekly feedback sessions with North Somerset’s SEND caseworkers ensured the tool integrated into daily workflows, met professional standards, and preserved the vital role of human judgment. Key features include council-specific plan templates, guidance on where AI should stop and professional input should begin, and improvements in plan structure and consistency. The result? A practical solution that reduces time spent on initial drafting and allows caseworkers to shift their focus back to families.
Measurable Results with Long-Term Vision
Since implementing the Agilisys EHCP tool, North Somerset has seen tangible improvements across four key areas:
- Time saved: Drafting efficiency has reduced the pressure on staff and budgets.
- Quality and consistency: Plans are now more standardised and reflect local expectations.
- Service timeliness: Children are getting the support they need more quickly.
- Staff wellbeing: Reduced admin has contributed to better morale and team sustainability.
Now fully embedded across the service, the tool is used to draft all EHCPs in North Somerset. The council is also looking ahead – exploring new use cases, expanding co-design efforts with frontline teams, and sharing learnings with peers. As one of the earliest adopters of AI in SEND delivery, North Somerset is showing what responsible, practitioner-led innovation looks like in practice.
You can view/download the case study here.
