Hello everyone. The annual budget for children with special educational needs and disabilities (Send) in England has increased by 58% over the last decade, now standing at £10.7bn. However, despite this increase, outcomes have not improved, and many parents feel that their children are not receiving the support they need. The National Audit Office (NAO) has released a report highlighting the financial strain on local authorities, with two in five at risk of bankruptcy by 2026 due to the high demand for services and years of budget cuts.
The NAO report emphasizes the need for system-wide reforms to address these challenges and ensure the sustainability of support for children with special needs. While the financial figures may be staggering, the real impact is felt by the children and families who rely on these services. The report raises concerns about the future of special needs provision and the well-being of vulnerable children in our society.
The root of the crisis can be traced back to the Children and Families Act of 2014, which expanded eligibility for Send provision but failed to address the funding needed to support these new obligations. Councils have been forced to make cuts to their budgets, leading to a shortfall in services for children with disabilities and learning difficulties. The cost of fulfilling Education, Health, and Care (EHC) plans, which outline a child’s entitlement to support, can be substantial and often exceed thousands of pounds per year.
The impact of these budget cuts is evident in the struggles faced by families navigating the system. Many parents find themselves fighting for essential support and facing barriers to accessing the services their children need. The current system is failing to meet the needs of children with special educational needs, leading to delays in assessments and a lack of adequate support.
It is clear that a comprehensive reform of the system is needed to ensure that every child receives the support they require to thrive. The government must prioritize funding for special needs education and work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for children with disabilities and learning difficulties. By investing in early intervention and strengthening local services, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
