A recent report by the National Audit Office revealed that despite a significant increase in funding for children with special educational needs (SEN) in the UK, there has been no visible improvement in their lives. The report stated that even with a 58 percent rise in funding from 2014-15 to 2024-25, the system is still failing to provide better outcomes for children and young people, and is putting local authorities at risk of financial instability.
Richard Kramer, the chief executive of the complex disability charity Sense, expressed concerns about the financial struggles faced by parents of children with SEN. He mentioned that some parents are forced to give up their careers in order to advocate for their children’s basic rights within the system.
If you are a parent, school leader, teacher, or support worker in the UK with experience navigating the special educational needs system, we want to hear from you. What are your thoughts on SEN support? Share your experiences with us by filling out the form below.
Your responses can be anonymous and will be kept secure as the form is encrypted and only accessible to the Guardian. We will use the data you provide solely for the purpose of this feature and will delete any personal information once it is no longer needed. For complete anonymity, you can utilize our SecureDrop service.
By sharing your story, you are helping shed light on the challenges and concerns within the special educational needs system in the UK. Your insights and experiences can contribute to a better understanding of how to improve support for children with SEN and their families.
We encourage you to be specific and detailed in your responses, including any concerns you may have encountered. Your contact details are optional but can be helpful for us to follow up with you for more information if needed. You can also upload a photo of yourself if you wish.
Thank you for sharing your valuable experiences and perspectives on special education needs in the UK. Your input can make a difference in shaping a more effective and supportive system for children with SEN.
