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The government has decided to postpone the implementation of reforms to the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (Send) system and other school policy proposals in England until the following year. Originally scheduled for release this autumn, the Schools White Paper, which contains plans for Send, will not be published until further co-creation and testing of proposals has been completed, according to Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson.
Acknowledging the frustration felt by parents over the delay, the Disabled Children’s Partnership emphasized the importance of the government taking the necessary time to make well-informed decisions. Similarly, the County Councils Network expressed disappointment with the delay, describing it as “massively disappointing”. In a letter to Helen Hayes, chair of the education select committee, Phillipson stated that a full Schools White Paper would be introduced early next year.
Ministers have been under pressure to preserve education, health, and care plans (EHCPs) for children and young people with Send. The National Audit Office revealed that the Send system in England is in need of repair, as it is financially unsustainable and failing to produce improved outcomes for children and young people. Although the delay to the white paper has been frustrating for parents seeking certainty regarding Send provision, efforts to engage with various stakeholders and listen to their perspectives have been welcomed.
Cllr Bill Revans, Send spokesman for the County Councils Network, warned that the system is in crisis and local authorities could face substantial deficits due to the support costs associated with EHCPs. The delay in reforms was denounced by Liberal Democrat schools spokeswoman Caroline Voaden as a betrayal of children with special educational needs and disabilities and their families, highlighting the ongoing crisis within Send services. However, education select committee chair Helen Hayes expressed satisfaction with the government’s decision to engage with families and stakeholders prior to implementing reforms to the Send system
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