Northants SEND Crisis: Radical Overhaul Planned

North Northamptonshire Council has unveiled draft proposals to significantly improve its special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision. The council is facing "phenomenal" growth in the number of individuals accessing its services. The current system is described as being under "significant and prolonged pressure" and "failing too many children and young people."

The proposed reforms aim to reorganize support, making it more "proactive, inclusive, and locally delivered." Key objectives include early identification of needs, reducing reliance on Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), and improving attendance and educational outcomes. The council also seeks to reduce the use of independent and out-of-area placements.

A central element of the plan involves integrating more SEND support within mainstream education settings, while still maintaining specialist provision. The introduction of "Experts at Hand" is intended to equip schools with necessary infrastructure and specialist expertise, such as educational psychology and therapy services. Training for schools is scheduled for later this year, with plans to be finalized by June 19. Approval from Westminster could also unlock funding to address Dedicated Schools Grant deficits.