SEND changes in England receive a mixed response from parents

Parents welcomed that reforms should avoid major disruption for children in special schools, but many said they fear children with the most complex needs may not get the support they need.

Parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in England have given a mixed response after the government set out planned reforms. Many families expressed relief that the changes will avoid major disruption, including moves out of special schools. The proposals aim to increase inclusion in mainstream schools and to limit eligibility for the highest tier of support, education, health and care plans (EHCPs), from 2030. Charities, parents and school leaders say there is still uncertainty about funding, practical detail and how children with complex needs will be supported. Key facts: - The government’s plans emphasise greater inclusion in mainstream schools and introduce tighter EHCP criteria from 2030, while children already in special schools will retain their EHCPs. - Ministers forecast that about one in eight children with EHCPs could be moved to new individual support plans (ISPs) between 2030 and 2035, and those granted EHCPs after 2030 would have reduced choice over school places and fewer routes of appeal. - Parents and organisations including Ambitious about Autism and Speech and Language UK said they welcome the aim of inclusion but want clearer detail on who will qualify for EHCPs, how specialist places will be guaranteed, and whether mainstream schools will receive sufficient resources and training. Summary: Officials announced the reforms and set a 2030 timeline for tighter EHCP rules; families report relief that some pupils will not be moved from special schools but remain concerned about support for children with complex or physical needs. Undetermined at this time.