Andy Smith, ADCS President said:

“We have seen huge rises in year-on-year demand for EHCPs, resulting in significant high needs funding deficits which are expected to reach £5 billion over the next two years. This extra funding is welcome to try and address the challenges but can only go so far. The system is in need of fundamental reform which would enable children with SEND needs to be educated in mainstream schools, alongside their peers, wherever possible.

“ADCS would urge government to address the question mark hanging over finances as a matter of urgency as the end to the statutory override arrangements are due to come to an end in the next financial year. 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 work in partnership to develop a system that delivers improved outcomes for children and prepares young people for adulthood.”

ENDS