Delivery of SEND services is 'nothing short of calamitous' says Kent MP

It comes after Mike Martin, who represents Tunbridge Wells, held a debate in Parliament yesterday about the issues with SEND services

unoccupied classroom in special needs school
Author: Josh BaileyPublished 16th Jul 2025

A Kent MP has told us the way SEND services are currently delivered to parents is 'nothing short of calamitous'.

It comes after Mike Martin, who represents Tunbridge Wells, held a debate in Parliament yesterday about the issues.

More than a dozen South East MPs contributed to the discussion, with many talking about a lack of support for their constituents.

Mike said: "Kent has big issues with the way SEND services are delivered.

"The whole system is an emotional logistical, practical and moral nightmare.

"What we want is children educated with a bit more special needs support in the schools that are near to them but often that's not the case.

"Currently the government are conducting a review on SEND service but it mustn't be about cutting costs.

"If it becomes about cutting costs the system will descend into further chaos, instead, the government need to look at root and branch reforms so they can focus on the outcomes for the children, the provisions for the children, and work back from there."

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