Are Schools Failing Our Special Needs Children? The Funding Crisis Explained.

A recent article from The Guardian has exposed a disturbing reality for children with special educational needs (SEN) in England: cash-strapped councils are increasingly refusing to provide crucial funding for students without an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

This means that thousands of children who require extra support, but don't meet the strict criteria for an EHCP, are being left behind. Parents are reporting that schools are struggling to provide adequate resources and support, leaving many children with SEN facing an uphill battle in the classroom.

What is an EHCP?

An EHCP is a legal document that outlines a child's specific needs and the support they require to access education. It's a vital lifeline for many families, ensuring that children with complex needs receive the help they deserve. However, obtaining an EHCP is a notoriously difficult and time-consuming process, often requiring parents to navigate complex assessments and even resort to legal action.

The Funding Gap

The root of the problem lies in a chronic lack of funding. While the number of children with EHCPs has skyrocketed by 60% since 2015, funding has only increased by 40% in real terms. This leaves local authorities struggling to meet the needs of a growing population of children with SEN.

As a result, many councils are now adopting a "no EHCP, no funding" policy, effectively creating a two-tier system where only those with the most severe needs receive support. This approach not only fails to address the needs of a significant number of children with SEN but also places an unfair burden on parents who are forced to fight for the support their children deserve.

The Impact on Children and Families

This funding crisis has real-world consequences for children with SEN. Without adequate support, they may struggle to keep up with their peers, experience behavioural difficulties, and develop low self-esteem. This can have a long-lasting impact on their educational attainment and future prospects.

For parents, the situation is equally stressful. They are often forced to become advocates for their children, spending countless hours navigating a complex system and battling for resources. This can take a significant toll on their emotional and financial wellbeing.

What Needs to Change?

The current system is clearly unsustainable. To ensure that all children with SEN receive the support they need, urgent action is required. This includes:

• Increased funding: The government must provide adequate funding to local authorities to meet the needs of all children with SEN, not just those with EHCPs.
• Simplified EHCP process: The process for obtaining an EHCP needs to be streamlined and made more accessible to families.
• Early intervention: Investing in early intervention services can help identify and support children with SEN before their needs escalate, reducing the need for EHCPs in the long run.
• Greater accountability: Local authorities need to be held accountable for ensuring that all children with SEN receive the support they are entitled to.

The future of our children with SEN depends on a fundamental shift in how we fund and support special needs education. It's time for the government to step up and ensure that every child, regardless of their needs, has the opportunity to reach their full potential.