The UK government is set to unveil a comprehensive reform of the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system in England, as leaked proposals indicate significant shifts in how support is allocated to children. With councils projected to spend £14.8 billion on SEND this year—up from £5 billion a decade ago—the urgency for reform has never been greater. The forthcoming Schools White Paper, which outlines the government’s strategies for addressing current inadequacies, is anticipated to be released shortly.
The Current Landscape of SEND Support
The SEND system has faced mounting criticism for its inefficiencies. The National Audit Office has labelled it “broken,” highlighting widespread frustrations among families, educators, and local authorities. In conversations with various stakeholders, including parents and teachers, a clear consensus emerges: the system must evolve to better meet the needs of children with SEND.
Ailith, a mother of a daughter with Down’s syndrome, emphasises the importance of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). These legal documents delineate the support children are entitled to receive. However, Ailith expresses concern over proposed government changes that would require reviews of EHCPs after primary school and again post-GCSEs. “Introducing multiple assessments raises serious questions about capacity and resources,” she states, fearing that children with lifelong conditions may be subjected to unnecessary evaluations.
Kadeem, who has experienced exclusion from schools due to his oppositional defiant disorder, shares his story of isolation and worsening behaviour linked to a lack of adequate support. He advocates for smaller class sizes and more focused interventions to help children with SEND integrate into mainstream education, rather than being penalised for their behaviours.
The Tribunal System: A Barrier to Support
Aimee, a mother of three children with SEND, highlights another critical issue: the arduous process families face when seeking appropriate support. Many parents find themselves embroiled in legal battles with local authorities, often leading to costly tribunal hearings. “Tribunals happen far too often. The emotional toll and financial burden can be overwhelming,” she laments. Despite winning her case for her son’s placement, Aimee describes the experience as “incredibly hard,” illustrating the systemic hurdles that families must overcome.
Local authorities, such as Hampshire County Council, acknowledge the challenges posed by rising demand. A spokesperson noted that while they strive to deliver the best possible support for children with SEND, the exponential increase in demand has made it increasingly difficult to secure suitable placements.
Addressing Inequities in the System
Marsha, founder of Black SEN Mamas, addresses another layer of complexity: the systemic barriers faced by non-white families, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds. She argues that unconscious biases can influence the decision-making process regarding children’s needs. Marsha calls for targeted training for educational staff to combat racism and bias within the SEND framework, ensuring that all families receive equitable support.
The leaked proposals have sparked concern among many stakeholders, including Marsha, who fears that the reforms may inadvertently strip vulnerable children of essential support as they transition from primary to secondary education. She warns, “Children’s rights are being compromised. Their needs do not disappear; they only escalate when unsupported.”
Funding Challenges and the Call for Reform
Russell, a head teacher in Lancashire, outlines the pressing issue of funding within the SEND system. He argues that schools require increased financial resources to provide inclusive education and timely access to specialised support. With over 300 students on his school’s SEND register, Russell believes that adequate funding is critical for enhancing facilities and ensuring staff receive appropriate training.
Councillor Bill Revans from Somerset Council echoes these sentiments, calling for urgent reform to prevent the SEND system from becoming financially unviable. “The present SEND system is in crisis,” he states, highlighting the alarming rise in demand for EHCPs, which has doubled in the past five years in his county alone. Revans warns that without comprehensive reform, councils will continue to face escalating costs and mounting pressures, with families waiting longer for essential assessments and placements.
Why it Matters
The proposed reforms to the SEND system represent a pivotal moment in how the UK supports its most vulnerable children. As stakeholders voice their concerns over funding, accessibility, and equity, it is imperative that the government listens and responds effectively. The changes have the potential to either enhance or further complicate the lives of countless families navigating the complexities of SEND support. Ensuring that every child receives the appropriate care and education they deserve is not merely a policy issue—it is a reflection of societal values and commitments to inclusivity. As the government prepares to unveil its White Paper, the stakes could not be higher.
