The delayed release of the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) review white paper has created significant challenges for local authorities in managing Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs). This situation has led to rising tensions and frustrations among parents, educators, and advocates, as local authorities grapple with unclear guidelines and increased pressure on resources.
In recent months, many local authorities have reportedly tightened their criteria for EHCP applications. Parents have recounted experiences of their applications being refused outright or facing delays at various stages of the process. This has been attributed to a perceived lack of clarity in expectations stemming from the delay of the white paper, which was initially expected to outline the future direction of SEND policy and support.
Local authorities are becoming increasingly cautious when assessing EHCP applications. The National Autistic Society has noted a concerning trend in which many local authorities are refusing to issue new EHCPs, citing insufficient evidence of a child’s needs being met at school (source: National Autistic Society report).
A parent of a child with autism stated, “I was told by our local authority that my child's application for an EHCP was denied because there wasn’t enough evidence of need. It’s frustrating because we have been asking for help for months, but they just put it back on the school.” This reflects a growing sentiment among parents about the shifting responsibility and the expectation for schools to demonstrate adequate support prior to applying for an EHCP.
Another troubling consequence of the white paper delay is that local authorities seem to be rushing to finalise EHCPs to clear backlogs. This hurried approach often results in documents that fail to accurately reflect a child’s needs or provide adequate support. According to a report from the Education and Skills Funding Agency, 41% of parents felt that the EHCP they received did not accurately address their child's requirements (source: Education and Skills Funding Agency report).
In many cases, families report being advised to simply appeal decisions rather than anticipate a thorough review. A representative from a special educational needs charity noted, “This is an unacceptable state of affairs. Parents feel as though they have no choice but to go to appeals, which adds significant emotional and financial burdens to families already navigating complex systems” (source: SEND charity spokesperson).
The lack of clarity regarding the SEND reforms has led to an environment of uncertainty for local authorities. Stakeholders desperately await the white paper’s proposals to bring a more consistent framework to EHCP processes, thereby alleviating pressures on families and educational institutions alike. Stakeholders, including charities and advocacy groups, have called for an immediate and proactive approach to address the concerns arising from delayed reforms.
“The system is in desperate need of reform to ensure that children and young people with SEND receive the support they require. We need robust guidelines that can help streamline the process and prevent the backlog of applications,” says Dr. Adam Boddison, Chief Executive of the National Association of Special Educational Needs (NASES) (source: NASES statement).
The delays in the white paper on SEND have introduced a host of challenges for local authorities managing EHCPs, resulting in a rising number of application refusals, rushed finalisations, and an overall sense of frustration for families. It’s crucial for policymakers to address these issues promptly, providing clarity and support to ensure that children with unique educational needs receive the care and resources they deserve. Only with decisive action can we hope to build a more equitable system for SEND support and fulfil the promise of a better educational experience for all children.
Moving forward, it is imperative that local authorities, families, and advocates work in partnership to navigate the complexities of the SEND system and advocate for the rights of children and young people.
The SEN Expert offers a range of services for young people, families and schools. We offer support for parents to help navigate the complex world of Special Educational Needs. We will work with you closely to ensure the best for your child.
The SEN Expert was set up by Claire in 2021 following a successful career spanning 12 years in school improvement, special educational needs, safeguarding and the arts.
Claire has worked as a Deputy Headteacher, Assistant Headteacher, Consultant and SENCO in both state and private schools in inner city London, the Southwest, the Midlands and the USA.
Throughout her career, Claire has ensured solid outcomes for the young people she has worked with. Be that a set of good exam grades, a placement in specialist setting or getting a part time job.
Claire is a working mother, and understands the challenges parents face trying to ensure their children are happy and successful. We aim to provide young people with a creative route to the personal and professional adult life they deserve.
We offer support for families, children, and schools to navigate the complex world of SEN.
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