The government has pledged a £740 million investment to increase support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), creating 10,000 new school places across England. This funding will enable the expansion of specialist facilities in mainstream schools, adapt current provisions, and establish new places in dedicated special schools, helping more children access education closer to home.
Current figures reveal a significant shortfall in SEND provision, with a gap of 8,000 places in state secondary special schools and fewer than 10% of mainstream schools offering specialist SEND units. The rising demand is evident, with children holding education, health and care plans (EHCPs) in independent special schools increasing from 7,000 in 2010 to 26,000 in 2024.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson described the move as a vital part of the government’s wider Plan for Change, aiming to ensure every child has a suitable, high-quality school place nearby. She said the investment addresses longstanding gaps in SEND provision and gives families more local, inclusive options.
The new guidance allows local authorities to direct funding towards creating SEND places in mainstream schools. Amanda Allard of the Council for Disabled Children welcomed the plans, urging local areas to build on existing best practices to create inclusive environments where children with SEND can thrive, make friends, and feel part of their communities.
