Last week the government published its long-awaited white paper on reforms to the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system – a development closely watched by families, schools, voluntary organisations and funders across the country.
At John Lyon’s Charity, we have seen first-hand the growing pressure on the current system. In our Beneficial Area alone, the number of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) has more than doubled in the past five years, reflecting rising levels of need and a system stretched beyond its capacity. Many of the organisations we fund, including those supporting families through assessments and appeals, know how complex and emotionally demanding the process can be.
The government’s proposals include a greater emphasis on early identification and early intervention, increased support for schools through specialist expertise, and a move away from EHCPs for many children towards new Individual Support Plans (ISPs). While these changes offer potential opportunities, they also raise important questions for families, schools and community organisations.
In our latest blog, we explore what these proposals could mean in practice – from the opportunities presented by earlier support and improved specialist advice, to concerns around pressure on schools, the role of community organisations, and how key transitions for young people with SEND will be supported.
We also reflect on the importance of ensuring that reforms do not deepen existing inequalities, particularly for families who already face barriers in navigating the education system.