What is happening with special needs children in West Sussex schools?

Families in West Sussex say their children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are not safe at school due to a lack of appropriate support, forcing some parents to withdraw their kids.

What is the West Sussex County Council's response to the issues faced by SEND students?

The council acknowledged a "dramatic increase in the number of children needing SEND support" and said they must "prioritize those with the highest level of need," though this has left many families feeling unsupported.

Home / Education / Parents Withdraw Special Needs Kids from Unsafe Schools in West Sussex

Parents Withdraw Special Needs Kids from Unsafe Schools in West Sussex

Q: How has the lack of support affected a 10-year-old autistic student named Emily?

Emily's mother, Charlotte Gover, said her autistic daughter was hurting herself in the playground due to insufficient supervision at school, leading Gover to keep Emily at home for her safety.

15 Aug

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Summary

Families say children with SEND not safe at school
Lack of support leads to dangerous situations
Parents forced to keep children home for their safety

Parents Withdraw Special Needs Kids from Unsafe Schools in West Sussex

As of August 15th, 2025, a group of families from West Sussex have reported that their children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are not safe at their schools. According to the parents, the lack of appropriate support has led to dangerous situations, forcing some to withdraw their children from school altogether.

Charlotte Gover, a local parent, shared that her 10-year-old autistic daughter Emily was hurting herself in the playground due to insufficient supervision. Gover stated, "I'm being left with no choice but to keep my child at home for her safety."

The West Sussex County Council acknowledged the issue, explaining that they have seen "a dramatic increase in the number of children needing SEND support" and must "prioritize those with the highest level of need." However, this has left many families feeling unsupported and concerned for their children's wellbeing.

The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by parents of children with SEND, who are struggling to secure the necessary resources and support to ensure their children's safety and education.

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