Rachael Wardell OBE, President of the Association of Directors of Children’s Services, said:
“ADCS notes yesterday’s announcement that publication of the Schools White Paper will be delayed until early 2026.
“We recognise that reform on this scale is complex and must be well thought through. It is vital that any reform to the SEND system delivers future arrangements that are sustainable, deliverable, and genuinely improve outcomes for children and young people.
“However, the reality on the ground is that the current system is broken beyond repair, and we need significant reform as soon as practicably possible. Children, families, and schools as well as local authorities are all grappling every day with the consequences of a system that is not working as it should.
“We cannot ignore the urgency of the crisis before us. Pressures in the SEND system are escalating, not easing, and children, families, and those who support them cannot afford to wait any longer for meaningful change.
“We need immediate, practical action alongside long-term reform.
“ADCS stands ready to work collaboratively with the Department for Education and partners to shape a reformed system that delivers for all children, young people, and their families.”
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.