CYP Now - SEND funding overhaul 'should be a major priority' for next government, says think-tank

Overhauling education funding to ensure schools can better meet rising demand for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) needs to be a priority for the next government, a think-tank is warning.

An increase in speech and language needs is a key driver behind rising numbers of children with EHCPs, research finds. Picture: Adobe Stock

An Institute for Fiscal Studies report warns that the current funding system is failing to take into account the extent of increases in the number of pupils with an education, health and care plan (EHCP) in recent years.

“Whichever party forms the next government will undoubtedly face continued pressure from the rising costs of high-needs provision,” the IFS report warns.

“Given the extent of the pressures, it should be a major priority to find better ways to meet needs in an effective manner and ensure the system is financially sustainable. It is not at all clear that the current system meets these criteria.”

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