SEND Reforms

I agree with many others that the current SEND system is unfit for purpose. It has not adapted to deal with the rising numbers of children requiring SEND provision, particularly since the pandemic, leaving too many parents and children having to fight for basic support. I therefore welcome the priorities set out by the Education Secretary to put the system on a sustainable footing and ensure all children are supported by schools and support plans which can provide for their specific needs.

Whilst I think the proposals are an improvement on the current settlement, I think there can be important questions raised about the potential problems with their implementation. We need to ensure appropriate support is given to all children and we must end the lottery whereby parents are forced to advocate for children, leaving some who could fall through the cracks. I will continue to discuss this matter with Ministers in order to ensure that no one’s right to appropriate support compromised.