Downing Street is facing another political battle over its overhaul of special educational needs (Send) provision in England, as MPs, campaigners and parents express fears that the reforms could abolish or restrict education, health and care plans (EHCPs) relied on by more than 600,000 children.
A letter to the Guardian, signed by over 100 charities and campaigners including broadcaster Chris Packham and actor Sally Phillips, warns that removing EHCPs would leave thousands of children 'denied vital provision, or losing access to education altogether'. The letter, backed by the newly formed Save Our Childrens' Rights campaign, calls for EHCPs to be retained 'now and in the future'.
Labour MPs have told the Guardian they are worried that ministers cannot explain key details of the Send shake-up, which is expected to be outlined in a schools white paper in October. Several MPs warned that the issue could cause a rebellion similar to the one that forced the government to gut its welfare bill last week.
One MP said: 'This could be a massive problem. We are hoping there will be proper engagement around it, but we are worried about some of the signals we are picking up.' Another added: 'People are really, really worried about this. It is one of the things that is going to make people feel very, very uncomfortable.'
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has insisted no decisions have been taken about the fate of EHCPs, but discussions are said to include phasing them out over several years or restricting them to the most profound needs. Labour MP Marie Tidball said the Send reforms were now a major focus for many backbenchers, and that 'lots of work will be done over the summer' to engage colleagues.
