Concern has been raised amongst parent groups as Local Authorities are expected to further tighten Special Educational Needs budgets. Given that the accumulated deficit in England for Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND) has reached a staggering £3.2bn, it is unsurprising that there are heightened fears surrounding the support available for children with complex needs.
We are now seeing more Education Health and Care Plans (EHCP) than ever before with almost 600,000 children and young people in England having an EHCP; representing a 26% year-on-year increase in the number of new plans issued. These EHCPs mean that Local Authorities are legally required to meet the needs of the child or young person. This growing demand combined with a lack of central government funding has led to the suggestion that some councils appear to be reducing the number of EHCPs issued in an attempt to lessen their legal obligations.
Endeavouring to mitigate their urgent financial pressures, many councils across England have entered into bailout agreements with central Government. In these “safety valve” deals, councils receive additional funding in return for an undertaking that they will cut SEND deficits. It is impossible to ignore the fact that this reduction in spending on Special Educational Needs has resulted in many children and young people failing to receive the Special Educational Provision which they require.
Parents have been alarmed by these developments with many now apprehensive that limits will be imposed on support for children and young people with Special Educational Needs. With the process for obtaining an EHCP already often being overwhelming and demanding, a large number of parents are now resorting to appealing to the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal to ensure EHCPs are put in place and that the contents of these EHCPs are correct.
If you think that your child may require the support of an EHCP, please do not hesitate to contact our specialist SEN lawyers today. The Tribunal process can be complex and daunting for parents but our team of experts are able to guide you through the entire process step-by-step. Our specialist solicitors provide impartial and detailed initial advice, prepare and lodge appeals on your behalf and provide support throughout the entire Tribunal process; even providing representation at the final hearing if required.
You can call our Special Education Law Solicitors on 0333 3202 7175 or send us an email at education@hcbgroup.com.