CYP Now - Rebalancing the High Needs system – what role can the SEND review play?

Last week, we facilitated a hugely inspiring discussion between local system leaders (directors of children’s services and directors of education) and the DfE SEND review team – around how best to rebalance the national SEND and High Needs System. This is clearly an urgent task.

Despite an investment of over £1.5billion in High Needs Block funding over the last two years, the number of Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and their associated costs continues to increase, leading to forecast overspends this year of over £600million. This shows us that money alone isn’t the answer; the system needs a reset across a number of areas.

Our roundtable discussion was wide ranging, and the passion amongst those working in the sector to get the very best for children and young people with additional needs was clear. The positive impact that some councils have managed to achieve across one of the most complex policy and delivery areas is inspiring. The good news is that in a number of areas there was significant alignment between what the sector is calling for and what the SEND review is trying to achieve:

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