Can the Lib Dems End SEND Services Exploitation?

The Liberal Democrats are advocating for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services in England to be classified as critical national infrastructure. This move aims to protect vulnerable children from being exploited by private investors, who have increasingly invested in SEND services as council spending in this area has surged. The party argues that new regulations are necessary to ensure that acquisitions of SEND providers serve the public interest, particularly as the government prepares to announce reforms to this system.

Last updated: 02 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the Liberal Democrats push for significant changes to the SEND framework, the spotlight has turned on the increasing role of private companies in this sector. The government is expected to reveal its reform plans shortly, including new national standards and price bands for independent providers. These changes aim to curb the rising costs associated with SEND services, which have reportedly become a lucrative market for private equity firms. The proposals highlight a pressing need for oversight in a system where the financial motivations of private investors could jeopardise the quality of education and support for children with SEND.

Key takeaways

The Liberal Democrats propose designating SEND services as critical national infrastructure.
Private equity firms now back over 30% of independent special schools.
The government plans to introduce national standards and price caps for SEND services.

Timeline: how we got here

The following timeline outlines key events leading to the current situation regarding SEND services in England:

2014: Significant reforms to the SEND system introduced under the Children and Families Act.
2020: The government announces a review of SEND services amid rising concerns over costs and quality.
September 2023: The Liberal Democrats announce their proposal for SEND to be classified as critical national infrastructure.
October 2023: The government is expected to unveil its SEND reform plans, with potential changes to how support is assessed.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The Liberal Democrats' recent proposal includes a call for SEND services to be designated as critical national infrastructure, which would allow for greater government scrutiny of private acquisitions in this sector. This shift aims to protect vulnerable children from exploitation by private investors.

What was already established

The government has acknowledged the rising costs associated with SEND and has indicated plans to introduce national standards and price bands to help manage these expenses. Reports suggest these bands may cap costs at around £60,000 annually for independent providers, compared to the average £63,000 charged by independent special schools.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The proposed changes are likely to impact families relying on SEND support. With independent special schools charging an average of £63,000 per child per year, the cost implications of private equity involvement have raised concerns among parents. The introduction of price bands may provide some relief, but questions remain about the adequacy of support for children with SEND.

Businesses and jobs

The rise of private equity in the SEND sector has implications for the job market within education. Increased scrutiny and regulation could affect employment practices within independent schools and services, with the potential for job losses if companies fail to adapt to the new standards.

Policy and regulation

The government's plans to reform SEND services are set against a backdrop of rising costs and increasing private sector involvement. The proposed legislation would grant the government enhanced oversight of acquisitions, allowing for public interest tests under the Enterprise Act. This could lead to a more regulated environment where private companies are held accountable for their operations.

Numbers that matter

30%: Proportion of independent special schools backed by private equity firms.
£63,000: Average annual cost for independent special schools per student.
£26,000: Average annual cost for state special schools per student.
£60,000: Potential cap on annual fees for independent SEND providers as proposed by the government.
£5 billion: Amount of debt the government has agreed to clear for councils by 2028.

Definitions and jargon buster

SEND: Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, referring to children who require additional support due to disabilities or learning difficulties.
Critical national infrastructure: Services deemed essential for the functioning of society, such as energy, transport, and water.
Private equity: Investment funds that acquire companies, often with the goal of improving their profitability before selling them for a profit.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the government prepares to announce its reforms, stakeholders, including parents, educators, and advocacy groups, should closely monitor the details of the proposed changes. Understanding how these reforms will affect existing services and support structures will be crucial.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Following the announcement, the implementation of new regulations and standards will likely take precedence. Advocacy groups may need to mobilise to ensure that the interests of children with SEND are adequately represented in the reform process.

Signals to watch

Details of the government's reform announcement expected in early October.
Public reactions and feedback from advocacy groups regarding the proposed changes.
Monitoring the introduction of new national standards and their impact on SEND service providers.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about the latest developments in SEND reforms.
Engage with local advocacy groups to understand the implications of policy changes.
Prepare to discuss your child's needs with educational professionals as reforms are implemented.

Don’t

Ignore communications from schools or local authorities regarding SEND support.
Assume that changes will not affect your child’s educational rights.
Delay seeking assistance if you believe your child requires additional support.

Checklist

Review your child's current SEND support and evaluate any potential changes.
Connect with other parents to share experiences and insights.
Stay updated on local council meetings discussing SEND services.
Advocate for your child's needs and rights within the education system.
Explore available resources for families navigating SEND challenges.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the Liberal Democrats' proposal aims to protect vulnerable children, there are uncertainties about how the government will implement these reforms. The precise nature of the new national standards and price bands remains unclear, and there is a risk that the proposed changes may not adequately address the needs of all children with SEND. Additionally, potential backlash from advocacy groups could lead to further modifications of the proposed reforms, complicating the landscape for families reliant on SEND support.

Bottom line

The Liberal Democrats' push for SEND services to be classified as critical national infrastructure highlights the urgent need for reform in this area. As the government prepares to unveil its plans, families and stakeholders must remain vigilant to ensure that the rights and needs of children with SEND are prioritised in any new regulations. This could be a pivotal moment in reshaping the SEND landscape in the UK.

FAQs

What does the Liberal Democrats' proposal for SEND services entail?

The Liberal Democrats are advocating for SEND services to be classified as critical national infrastructure, which would allow for greater government oversight of private acquisitions in this sector.

How much do independent special schools charge on average?

Independent special schools charge an average of £63,000 per child per year, significantly higher than the £26,000 cost for state special schools.

What changes can we expect from the government's upcoming SEND reform announcement?

The government is expected to introduce new national standards and price caps for independent SEND providers, with a potential cap of £60,000 annually for services.