Northamptonshire charity challenges the government’s SEND promises
Autism charity, EnFold, in Northamptonshire, has cautiously welcomed the government’s new plans to reform the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system while stressing that actions must follow these proposals.
The government’s latest plans include a £4 billion investment to create safer and more inclusive classrooms for SEND pupils as well as enhanced teacher training.
Diane Johnson, CEO and founder of charity, EnFold, expressed optimism about parts of the government's plans but highlighted the need for tangible results. She said: "I think there's some real signs of hope, but families need more than announcements; they need a system that works in practice, not only in principle."
"It’s brilliant that there's a positive kind of spin on listening to parents.''
''Acknowledging that parents are the experts in their children is amazing.'' She added.
However, she stressed the need for these words to be matched with action: "The fruit of the pudding is in the eating. Let's see if that actually happens."
Johnson also said that while the plans look good ''on paper'', there is a general sense of anxiety amongst parents of SEND children.
She explained: ''I think people want to believe that it's going to be more successful. I think some of the right words have been spoken, but we need to see this actually rolled out and happening and it to be resourced adequately.''
The charity is also calling for specialist teacher training that is grounded in practical experiences rather than ''theory'' alone.
''Teachers must receive the necessary guidance to recognise early signs and implement this training effectively.'' The CEO added.
Johnson expressed while the plan for specialist support banks is promising, its success depends on how it's carried out in real classroom settings.
"Inclusion bases sound amazing, but what we have to recognize is they must be a safe space, a sensory-considerate space," Johnson explained, warning against their misuse as 'holding rooms'.
Starting in September 2029, children will have their EHCPs reviewed at each education stage, and by 2035 these plans will be kept solely for the most complex cases.
Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) provide legal protection for children needing additional educational support, defining the assistance needed based on individual requirements.
"You've got a whole cohort of people that are not going to get an EHCP so they wont get that same legal protection.
''Without proper systems, there's a risk of increased emotional-based school avoidance, leaving more children without necessary education support.'' Johnson noted.
The charity expressed that it is committed to supporting families in Northamptonshire and calls on the government to ensure these reforms are implemented effectively and adequately resourced.
Johnson added: “The SEND Reform Bill is a positive step, and the current system needs change. But we must keep pushing our communities’ voices forward so that the reforms truly make a difference.”
To find out more about the charity's work visit the website: EnFold and to read more about the governments SEND reforms visit www.gov.uk