Summary
The UK government plans to change how the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system works in England. A charity called IPSEA says these changes might take away legal protections for children who need support. The reforms aim to modify which children qualify for certain support plans, making the system flexible but possibly less enforceable.
Key Facts
- The UK government announced plans to reform the SEND system in England.
- IPSEA, a charity focused on SEND law, is worried the changes will weaken legal protections.
- Current rules let parents apply for an education, health, and care plan (EHCP) if their child needs extra support.
- These EHCPs specify the support a child must legally receive.
- Planned changes would mean only children with complex needs get EHCPs by 2035.
- New Individual Support Plans (ISPs) will be created but may not guarantee enforceable support.
- IPSEA is concerned about changes to SEND tribunals, which now help parents secure school placements for their children.
- The government proposals might limit tribunal powers and increase local authority control over school choices.
