Access to Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) support is one of the issues most frequently raised with me as an MP. Too many parents face unnecessary barriers in securing a diagnosis and ensuring their child receives the support they need.
In February, the Government published its consultation, SEND Reform: putting children and young people first. I hope many constituents have taken the opportunity to contribute to this important discussion. The Government has also announced forthcoming legislation in the King’s Speech — the Education for All Bill — which is expected to deliver many of the reforms outlined in the consultation.
In my response to the consultation (a copy is below), I raised concerns shared by many constituents about proposals to replace enforceable Education, Health and Care Plans with Individual Support Plans. I am also concerned about the additional pressures these changes could place on mainstream schools.
I have discussed with Ministers and officials the risk that some disabilities may not fit neatly within the proposed “Specialist Provision Package” model. I have encouraged the Government to work closely with specialist settings such as Treloar's School in Alton to ensure the detail of these proposals reflects the realities faced by children, families and schools.
Through my work with the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Down Syndrome, I am particularly aware of the importance of Down Syndrome-specific training and support. Children with Down Syndrome often have a well-evidenced learning, behaviour and communication profile, and it is vital that specialist expertise and provision are protected.
These proposals require careful and sustained scrutiny, particularly from those with first-hand experience of the SEND system. I will continue to follow developments closely and press the Government to ensure that children and families receive the support they deserve.
