For years, Labour councils have been clear – our special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system is overwhelmed, under-resourced and struggling to deliver.
The Government’s recently published Schools White Paper represents a meaningful step towards a fairer, more consistent and truly inclusive education system for children and families across our country.
Rising demand, stretched resources and inconsistency in service provision have made it harder for too many children to get the support they need at the right time.
This Labour Government has listened: ambitious, system-wide reforms will be supported by additional investment over three years, including £1.8 billion for ‘Experts at Hand’ multi-agency specialist support, as well as £1.6 billion for a new Inclusive Mainstream Fund which will go directly to schools, colleges and early years settings to continue support for children with SEND.
As local leaders, we know that strong partnerships are essential for effective SEND support.
Reforms set out in the white paper recognise what councils, educators and families have long said – that children with additional needs should be supported close to home, with education, health and care systems joined up at a local level.
“As local leaders, we know that strong partnerships are essential for effective SEND support”
Particularly key is the renewed focus on earlier support within mainstream schools.
Combined with plans to expand specialist provision in every local area, as well as additional investment, reforms set out by this Labour Government will help children thrive rather than waiting years for help and give families greater confidence that support will be available closer to home.
Combining national leadership with local knowledge and collaboration, Labour stands united in delivering a SEND system that is inclusive, responsive and rooted in community-based support.
Labour local government is ready to work with ministers, schools and families to turn these proposals into reality – and will continue to champion improvements that put children first.