Heather Sandy, Chair of the ADCS Inclusive Education Network, said:

“ADCS welcomes the Autumn Budget announcement that, from the end of the statutory override extension in 2028, SEND costs will be absorbed by the Department for Education. This is a constructive recognition of the significant financial pressures faced by local authorities.

“However, the detail will be crucial, and we look forward to greater clarity on the scope of costs to be covered and how these arrangements will work in practice.

“For ADCS, it remains essential that, alongside tackling current funding challenges and historic deficits, the Government retains a clear and sustained focus on creating a SEND system that is genuinely sustainable for the future — one that consistently meets the needs of all children and young people and enables them to thrive.”

ENDS

The Association of Directors of Children's Services (ADCS) Ltd is the professional leadership association for Directors of Children's Services and their senior management teams in England.