Responding to the Isos Partnership report, Towards an effective and financially sustainable approach to SEND in England, ADCS President, Andy Smith, said:

“This report is essential reading for the new government. The report summarises the challenges in the current SEND system and provides a blueprint for what a future system could look like. We will be drawing on this report in our conversations with government.

“While the 2014 SEND reforms were well intentioned, we have seen a range of unintended consequences emerge as a result of implementation and for many, education, health and care plans (EHCPs) are now considered to be the only way to access support. We have seen unsustainable levels of demand for EHCPs, resulting in significant high needs funding deficits, which are expected to reach £5 billion over the next two years, as well as a drift away from inclusion in mainstream schools towards high-cost specialist provision. While the system is unaffordable, it is also not delivering the outcomes we wish to see for our children and young people.  We cannot continue to view SEND and education as separate systems. A truly inclusive education system would enable children to be educated in mainstream schools, alongside their peers, wherever possible. This will require a major step change, and the government will need to bring parents, schools, and all stakeholders together on this journey, but it is the right thing to do for children.

“Reform cannot happen overnight, but there are some short to medium term actions the government can take to help address some of the pressure in the system. The realigning of SEND and AP policy within the DfE into the Schools Group is an excellent first step from the government, indicating the importance of viewing SEND as part of the wider education system. This now needs to be supported by a holistic, cross-government approach on inclusive education to provide the initial scaffolding for the change we so urgently need to see.

“The risk of the current statutory override coming to an end is on the worry list for many councils; the planned change to accounting rules will see high needs deficits go back into general funds in March 2026, which will have significant consequences for councils overnight.  ADCS would urge government to address the finances as a matter of urgency. One immediate measure the government could quickly take is to move the high needs deficits from the balance sheets of councils to the national debt, we can then move on with clarity and in partnership to develop a system that delivers improved outcomes for children and prepares young people for adulthood. ADCS looks forward to working with ministers and DfE officials to improve the experiences and outcomes of children and young people with additional needs and disabilities.”

ENDS