Welcome to the latest edition of The SEN Expert, your essential guide to developments in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This issue spotlights the escalating crisis in educational psychology services, with a detailed summary of a critical new report commissioned by the British PsychologicalSociety (BPS).

Feature Summary: Chronic Shortage ofEducational Psychologists Threatens SEND Progress

A landmarkBPS-commissioned report warns of a "chronic shortage" of educational psychologists (EPs) across England, jeopardising government inclusion goals and leaving thousands of children waiting for vital support. 5 1 In the most affected areas, there is just oneEP per 9,400 pupils, leading to Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)assessment delays of up to two years. 1 6

Key findings from the report and related surveys include:

• Workforce Strain: Over half of EPs report feeling unable to adequately support children due to unmanageable workloads, with nearly three-quarters lacking time for direct work with pupils, parents, and schools. 2
• Retention Crisis: 26% of EPs are considering leaving the sector within 12 months, and 20% are undecided, exacerbating the  "postcode lottery" in services. 2
• National  Shortfall: 96 local authorities lack sufficient EPs; recruiting 1,400 more could align them with recommended levels (one EP per 4,000-6,000 pupils in better-served areas). 7 4
• Broader Impact: DfE inclusion plans for mainstream schools are at risk, as shortages hinder timely EHCP assessments amid rising demand post-austerity cuts. 1 3

The BPSurges immediate action: expanding EP training places, bolstering local authority funding, and addressing retention to avert a full crisis in children's education. 5 2

Recent Developments and Warnings

• DfE Alert: The Department for Education has been cautioned that shortages undermine mainstream inclusion, with stark regional disparities (e.g., one EP per 480 pupils in best areas vs. 9,400 in worst). 1 4
• Survey Insights: A BPS poll of 249 EPs (July-August 2024) highlighted underinvestment in SEND amid surging EHCP needs. 2
• Sector Calls: The Association of Educational Psychologists (AEP) echoes the report's evidence of "record provision gaps" and unequal access. 3

Implications for SEN Professionals andFamilies

This shortage intensifies pressures on SEND systems, delaying interventions for children with complex needs. Stakeholders should monitor government responses,as the new administration has pledged SEND reforms—but experts stress urgent recruitment and retention fixes are needed now. 2 5

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Then add a paragraph about the save our childrens rights campaigns protests on the 9th may. Say The SEN Expert is proud to be part of this group

Join the Movement: 'Save Our Children'sRights' Campaign

The fight for equitable access to education and support services is gathering significant momentum, and we are proud to stand with the Save Our Children's Rights campaign. As the crisis in educational psychology and wider SEND provision deepens, collective action has never been more vital. We encourage all members of our community to join the upcoming national day of action and protests on May9th. This is a crucial opportunity to make our voices heard, demand immediate government intervention, and advocate for the systemic changes required to ensure every child receives the support they are entitled to. TheSEN Expert is proud to be part of this group, and we look forward to standing alongside you to defend the rights of our children.

Introducing Our New ADHD and ASD SpecialistTeacher: Cara Huckstep

We are excited to welcome Cara Hucktep as our new Autism and ADHD AdvisoryConsultant at The SEN Expert. With over 18 years of experience inspecial educational needs education and consultancy, Cara brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team.

Previously a specialist teacher in a special school, Cara has dedicated the last decade to working as an autism advisor for a local authority, where she has provided invaluable support to neurodivergent children, their families, and associated professionals. In her advisory role, Cara has collaborated with 20mainstream primary schools, assisting SENCOs, teachers, and support staff in fostering an inclusive environment for autistic and ADHD children and young people.

Her responsibilities have included:

• Observing individual children and providing tailored advice
• Developing SEN support plans
• Delivering autism-specific training and workshops for school staff

Cara is committed to empowering families through post-diagnostic guidance, parent training, and practical support. She adopts a neuro-affirming approach, helping neurodivergent children and young people to understand and embrace their identities while educating parents and professionals on neurodiversity.

Cara is dedicated to ensuring that every neurodivergent child achieves their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally.

2026 White Paper Reforms: Key Concerns forSEND Parents

The government's Schools White Paper "Every Child Achieving andThriving" (published February 23, 2026) proposes sweeping SEND reforms, including a four-tier support system and replacement of EHCPs with school-led Individual Support Plans (ISPs) for most children—prompting widespread parental alarm over reduced legal protections. 4 3 1 A 12-week consultation is underway, allowing families to influence outcomes before potential legislation. 3

MostWorrying Proposals:

• Stricter EHCP Thresholds: Only children with the highest "complex needs" (top tier, or Specialist Support Packages/SSPs) qualify for EHCPs; those with autism, ADHD, or speech/language needs deemed "predictable" may be excluded, shifting from a needs-based model. 1 3 4
• Reassessments at Transitions: Legal rights to support reviewed at age 11 (primary to secondary), risking loss of EHCPs for existing recipients. 1 3
• ISPs Replace EHCPs: Schools must create digital, annually reviewed ISPs without enforceable delivery duties or strong parental challenge rights, potentially leading to inconsistent provision. 3 1
• School Funding Burden: Mainstream schools may fully fund SEND support without local authority top-ups, straining budgets and widening inequalities. 1
• Reduced Parental Powers: Local authorities can reject preferred school placements on cost; SEND Tribunal loses power to name schools, limited to reassessment requests. 3

These changes aim for consistency and earlier support but risk a higher EHCP bar and weaker safeguards, fueling campaigns like Save Our Children's Rights. 1 4 Parents are urged to engage in the consultation to protect vital entitlements

Stay connected with The SEN Expert!Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates, tips, and insights into SpecialEducational Needs and Disabilities. It’s a great way to engage with our community and access valuable resources. If you’re looking for personalized support, don’t hesitate to book an advice call through our website. We’re hereto help you navigate the challenges of SEND and ensure every child gets the support they need. Let’s work together to make a difference!

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