We are writing to you as a group of organisations and professionals who are concerned about the possible impact that SEND reform could have on children and their families across England.
We believe that the Government’s proposals as they stand do not address the accountability gap and could worsen delays and access to support across the country.
Based on our engagement with parents and carers, professionals, and organisations in the sector, we believe that reform should commit to these six basic principles:
1. Be co-designed with children and families
There must be meaningful opportunities for children and families who have lived experience of navigating services to shape SEND reform.
2. Strengthen compliance with the law
The Department for Education should clarify the roles and expectations of stakeholders delivering SEND services, such as local authorities and health services. Families must know who is accountable for delivering what, when, and their rights for redress if things go wrong.
3. Ensure parental choice is retained
Families should continue to have the right to request a particular school or college within their child’s EHC plan. Their options should not be limited to a tailored list. Children and young people's views should actively be sought and heard within the decision-making process.
4. Make post-16 support a priority
The Department for Education should consider additional proposals on independent advocacy and supported internships and apprenticeships. Children with SEND must have meaningful opportunities with regards to training and employment.
5. Not squeeze children’s needs into funding bands
A one size-fits-all funding approach risks a loss of provision in expensive areas of the country. Needs change over periods of time and are by nature different from child to child. This proposal is dangerous and should be dropped.
6. Address existing gaps in the Green Paper
The Green Paper does not discuss how proposals will impact children in care and care leavers, children who have a physical disability, experience school-based avoidance or diagnostic overshadowing. The Minister should address these gaps.
We would welcome the opportunity to meet with the relevant Minister and discuss our recommendations further.
Yours sincerely,
[Signatories to the letter]
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For questions or comments on the above joint action, please email our Policy, Public Affairs and Campaigns Manager at: lucy.croxton@togethertrust.org.uk
