The Labour government is set to announce comprehensive reforms to the special educational needs and disabilities (Send) system on Monday, as local councils grapple with mounting debt. The overhaul aims to address systemic failures that have left families struggling to secure adequate support for children with additional needs.
Councils across England have reported surging deficits in their high-needs budgets, driven by rising demand and insufficient funding. Many local authorities are now legally required to balance their books, but the growing pressure has prompted urgent calls for reform.
While specific details of the proposals remain under wraps, ministers are expected to focus on streamlining assessment processes, improving early intervention, and ensuring that funding reaches frontline services more effectively. The changes could also include measures to reduce reliance on expensive independent placements.
The announcement comes after years of criticism from parents, educators, and campaigners who argue that the current system is broken. Labour has pledged to restore trust by delivering a more responsive and sustainable Send framework.
