Cumberland gets £1.87m boost for SEND support across West Cumbria
New service aims to provide specialist support in local schools
Cumberland Council has received a significant investment of £1.87 million aimed at improving special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) support across West Cumbria.
The funding is part of a nationwide programme worth £429 million, designed to enhance support for children with SEND by providing timely access to necessary assistance without the need for complicated procedures.
Josh MacAlister, MP for Whitehaven and Workington and Minister for Children and Families, played a pivotal role in securing the funds.
His efforts will result in the introduction of the "Experts at Hand" service, which offers local schools access to specialist professionals such as educational psychologists and therapists.
This initiative will help expedite support for children, eliminating the need for lengthy statutory assessments.
Josh MacAlister MP emphasised the impact of the funding, saying:
“Too many families across West Cumbria have faced long waits and barriers to getting the support their children need.”
“This £1.87 million investment will help change that - bringing specialist expertise straight into our schools so children can get help earlier, without parents having to fight for it.”
“Whether it’s support from a speech and language therapist or advice from an educational psychologist, this new service will make a real difference for families across our communities.”
The funding aims to align mainstream schools, specialist settings, and local services to ensure accessible support for children with SEND within their local area.
This announcement follows a prior allocation of £4.2 million in High Needs capital funding for Cumberland, intended to increase specialist places and enhance school facilities, fostering inclusive learning environments.
The initiative also supports the Government's broader SEND reforms, detailed in the Schools White Paper and currently open for consultation, which seek to rejuvenate trust in the system and guarantee more consistent and early support.
Josh MacAlister recently convened a group of parents from West Cumbria, alongside BEE Unique and Autism Support Allerdale and Copeland, to discuss their experiences and ensure local feedback contributes to national reforms.