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SEND Reforms "Missed Opportunity"

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/23/send-reforms-missed-opportunity.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 7:56 GMT by London Evening Standard
      Locales: England, UNITED KINGDOM

London, UK - February 23rd, 2026 - Parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are voicing widespread disappointment with the government's reforms, claiming they represent a "missed opportunity" to address a growing crisis in support provision. An investigation reveals that changes implemented in September 2021, designed to overhaul the system and better cater to vulnerable children, have largely failed to deliver on their promises. The core intent - integrating health, social care, and education services to provide families with a streamlined, single point of contact - remains unrealized, hampered by persistent funding shortfalls, fragmented service delivery, and a needlessly complex bureaucratic process.

The original reforms aimed to move away from a fragmented and often adversarial system, replacing it with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) meant to be truly tailored to each child's individual needs. The promise was a holistic approach, ensuring children received the right support, at the right time, to maximize their potential. However, the reality on the ground paints a very different picture. Parents like Sarah Thompson, whose son is autistic, describe a relentless struggle simply to access basic services. "It's just a constant battle," Thompson stated, echoing the frustration felt by many. "It's a system that just doesn't work."

David Bates, father to a daughter with a learning disability, shares this sentiment, stating, "It's still the same old story. We're still fighting for everything." This echoes a pattern of ongoing battles for resources, assessments, and appropriate educational placements. The lack of progress, despite the extensive changes, has left many families feeling exhausted and increasingly desperate.

The investigation reveals a significant strain on local authorities tasked with implementing the reforms. Many councils report critical shortages of resources, including qualified staff and adequate funding. Without sufficient investment, the ability to deliver the integrated, personalized support envisioned by the reforms has been severely compromised. Deborah Richmond, of the National Autistic Society, has been a vocal critic of the lack of financial commitment. "We've been saying for years that the system is in crisis and it needs more funding," she explained. "The reforms were an opportunity to fix that, but it hasn't happened."

The financial pressures are compounded by a lack of inter-agency collaboration. While the reforms called for a more joined-up approach between education, health, and social care, many parents report that these services remain siloed, leading to delays, miscommunication, and a disjointed experience for families. This lack of coordination forces parents to act as intermediaries, navigating the complexities of the system themselves, further adding to their already considerable burden.

Labour's Shadow Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, has consistently criticized the government's handling of SEND provision. She characterized the reforms as "a costly failure," highlighting the years of underfunding and perceived lack of political will. "Years of underfunding and a lack of political will have left families feeling let down and children's needs unmet," Phillipson stated. Her call for a comprehensive review of the current system is gaining traction, with many experts arguing that a fundamental reset is needed.

The Department for Education maintains that it is committed to supporting children with SEND, pointing to the GBP2.8 billion of funding allocated to local authorities. However, critics argue that this funding is insufficient to meet the growing demand and address the systemic issues plaguing the system. Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the distribution of funds, with some areas receiving significantly less support than others.

The situation has prompted calls for a fundamental shift in how SEND provision is approached. Experts are advocating for earlier intervention, a focus on preventative measures, and increased investment in specialist training for teachers and support staff. A greater emphasis on co-production - involving parents and children in the planning and delivery of their support - is also seen as crucial. The current system often feels imposed on families rather than working with them.

The long-term consequences of the failures in SEND provision are significant. Children are being denied the opportunity to reach their full potential, and families are facing immense emotional, financial, and practical challenges. Without urgent action, the crisis is likely to deepen, leaving a generation of vulnerable children behind. The need for a truly comprehensive and adequately funded SEND system has never been greater.