Could Special Needs Systems Face Total Collapse?

The special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system in England is reportedly facing "total collapse," prompting urgent calls for government reform. With council deficits projected to reach £4.4 billion annually by 2029, local authorities are struggling to meet the increasing demand for support, particularly as the number of Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) grows. The government has delayed planned reforms, raising concerns about the future of SEND provisions for children.

Last updated: 14 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The current situation surrounding the SEND system is dire, with council leaders warning that without immediate reforms, the system may collapse under its own weight. The County Councils Network (CCN), which represents many of England's local authorities, highlighted a concerning trend: an escalating number of children requiring EHCPs, which entitle them to necessary support. As of January 2025, there were 638,745 EHCPs in place, a 10.8% increase from the previous year, indicating a growing crisis.

Key takeaways

Projected council deficits related to SEND support could reach £4.4 billion per year by 2029.
The number of EHCPs has surged by 10.8% in one year, with 638,745 documented in January 2025.
Concerns are rising about the government's delayed reforms and the political implications of altering EHCPs.

Timeline: how we got here

To understand the current crisis in SEND support, it is essential to review key events leading to this point:

2014/15: Approximately 109,000 pupils in special schools across England.
January 2025: The number of EHCPs reaches 638,745, marking a significant increase.
Autumn 2023: The government delays the release of a white paper that outlines SEND reforms.
2029: Projected deficits in SEND support could total £4.4 billion annually.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent discussions among council leaders and education officials have amplified calls for urgent reforms to the SEND system, emphasising the dire financial implications for local authorities. The delays in government action have raised anxiety among families reliant on SEND provisions.

What was already established

The ongoing issues with the SEND system have been known for years, with councils struggling to provide adequate support under current frameworks. The increase in EHCPs has been a consistent theme, alongside rising costs associated with special education placements.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Families with children who have special educational needs are feeling the strain as local authorities grapple with deficits and delays in support. Parents are often compelled to navigate a complex and frustrating system to secure the necessary assistance for their children, impacting their mental health and financial stability.

Businesses and jobs

The rising demand for special educational needs support has implications for businesses, particularly those involved in education and care services. Increased costs may lead to higher fees for private schools and special provisions, affecting parents' options and financial planning.

Policy and regulation

The government is under pressure to reform SEND provisions, with potential implications for national policy and local governance. Councils are advocating for a shift in focus to include more children in mainstream education settings, emphasising that current financial strains cannot continue without significant government intervention.

Numbers that matter

£4.4 billion: Projected annual deficit for SEND support by 2029.
10.8%: Year-on-year increase in EHCPs, now totalling 638,745.
194,000: Current number of pupils in special schools, up from 109,000 in 2014/15.
97,747: New EHCPs issued in 2024, a 15.8% increase from the previous year.
£8 billion: Estimated spending on specialist placements by councils by the end of the decade.

Definitions and jargon buster

Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP): A legal document outlining the support a child with special educational needs is entitled to receive from local authorities.
County Councils Network (CCN): An organisation representing county councils in England, advocating for local government interests.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Families and councils should prepare for potential announcements from the government regarding SEND reforms. Staying informed on developments will be crucial as the situation evolves.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Monitoring the outcomes of any legislative changes, especially regarding EHCPs and funding allocations, will be essential. Stakeholders should advocate for their interests during public consultations.

Signals to watch

Updates on the government's white paper and any proposed dates for its release.
Changes in the number of EHCP applications and approvals.
Local councils’ responses to funding announcements and reform proposals.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about local council meetings and public consultations regarding SEND reforms.
Engage with local advocacy groups to share experiences and strategies for securing support.
Document all interactions with local authorities concerning EHCPs for future reference.

Don’t

Do not hesitate to seek legal advice if you face challenges in securing support for your child.
Avoid assuming that all local authorities have the same resources; be proactive in understanding your local context.

Checklist

Verify your child’s eligibility for an EHCP and gather necessary documentation.
Research local support services and advocacy groups for SEND families.
Keep a record of all communications with the local authority regarding your child’s needs.
Attend local workshops or meetings on SEND to stay updated on changes and resources.
Connect with other parents to share insights and experiences regarding SEND provisions.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The current landscape of SEND support is fraught with uncertainties, particularly regarding the government's commitment to reform. The potential for changes to EHCPs raises concerns among families who fear losing vital legal protections. Furthermore, the financial implications of writing off council deficits may hinder the government’s ability to implement necessary reforms effectively. Stakeholders must remain cautious and engaged as developments unfold.

Bottom line

The SEND system in England is at a critical juncture, with urgent reforms needed to prevent collapse. Families are facing increasing challenges in securing the necessary support for their children, and the government must act decisively to address these issues. The future of SEND provisions will depend on the government's willingness to commit resources and implement meaningful changes.

FAQs

What is an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP)?

An EHCP is a legal document that outlines the support a child with special educational needs is entitled to receive from local authorities, crucial for accessing necessary resources.

Why is there a call for SEND reform now?

The current SEND system is facing a financial crisis, with local councils struggling to meet the increasing demand for support, leading to warnings of a potential collapse.

What are the implications for families if EHCPs are changed or scrapped?

If EHCPs are altered or removed, families may lose their legal right to support, which could have catastrophic consequences for children with special educational needs.