Downing Street is facing a fresh battle over its overhaul of special educational needs (SEN) provision in England, as MPs, campaigners and parents voice fears that the reforms could abolish or restrict education, health and care plans (EHCPs). More than 600,000 children rely on EHCPs for individual support.
A letter to the Guardian, signed by over 100 charities and campaigners including broadcaster Chris Packham, actor Sally Phillips and Jane Asher of the National Autistic Society, calls for EHCPs to be retained. The letter warns that removing them could leave thousands of children “denied vital provision, or losing access to education altogether”.
Labour MPs have expressed concern that ministers cannot explain key details of the SEN shake-up, expected in a schools white paper in October. Several MPs warned that the future of EHCPs could spark a rebellion similar to that which forced the government to retreat on welfare reforms 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.”
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has insisted no decisions have been taken, but discussions reportedly include phasing out EHCPs over several years or restricting them to the most profound needs. The government’s strategic adviser on SEN, Dame Christine Lenehan, said in May that EHCPs would “probably” change.
Labour MP Marie Tidball, who spoke against the welfare bill, said SEN reforms are a major focus for backbenchers. “There’s going to be lots of work done over the summer on this,” she said. Phillipson told the BBC she could not rule out getting rid of EHCPs but said no decisions had been made.
