Parents Pay Thousands as SEND Support Fails Disabled Children

Many parents of disabled children are facing significant annual costs, often amounting to thousands of pounds, as the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision falls short of requirements. New research highlights that children needing extra support in educational settings access help through the SEND system, typically via an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

However, persistent long delays, inconsistent decision-making, and EHCPs that do not fully address a child's needs are leaving many children with complex requirements without adequate support. One mother details paying £7,280 yearly for essential therapy for her son, as his EHCP does not fully cover his needs and school-based speech therapy has been significantly reduced.

The number of EHCPs has seen a substantial increase, with councils struggling with escalating costs. In response, the government has announced plans to write off 90% of accrued SEND deficits and intends to publish SEND system reforms soon. Disability charity Sense is urging the government to ensure sufficient funding, robust legal rights, and integrated support for disabled children.

Department for Education representatives acknowledge the need for a "once in a generation opportunity" to reform the SEND system. They aim to create an inclusive education system where all children receive early, appropriate support closer to home, while maintaining legal rights for families.