Ministers insist plans to absorb council Send debts won't hit school budgets
Summary
The government plans to take over the costs for supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (Send) from local councils by 2028. This move is meant to relieve local councils of rising costs, but there are concerns that it could reduce the money available for general school budgets. The Department for Education disputes these concerns and promises reforms to improve the situation.Key Facts
- The government plans to handle all costs for supporting children with special needs by 2028.
- Local councils currently manage these costs with help from a dedicated grant but have faced financial strain.
- The number of students needing special education support has doubled since 2016, increasing costs.
- Without a financial safety net, councils predict rising deficits and possible financial trouble by 2028.
- The Office for Budget Responsibility estimates these changes could lead to a reduction in mainstream school budgets.
- The Department for Education disagrees, stating upcoming reforms will address these issues.
- Full details of the government's reform plans will be made public next year.
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