Share your thoughts with the Department for Education on SEND Units in Mainstream Schools

23/07/2025

There is a lot in the news at the moment about Government Plans to change the SEND System and it has been confirmed that there will be a White Paper on this subject published in the Autumn. A government white paper is a formal document that outlines the government's policy proposals for future legislation. It's a way for the government to present its plans and seek feedback before introducing a bill to Parliament. 

While there has been no confirmation from the Government of what will be proposed, there are strong suggestions that Ministers are considering changes to the role of Education, Health and Care Plans and are placing a strong focus on the use of SEND units in schools, to promote inclusion. 

Many respected SEND organisations have raised concerns about what is seen as a potential reduction in rights for the SEND community, highlighting that what is in fact needed is improved accountability and increased funding for the SEND system.  This is discussed in a recent article from IPSEA in the TES magazine

It is important that the voices of SEND families are heard in this discussion and any reforms are influenced and shaped by our experiences.  Currently the DfE is asking for feedback on the use of SEND units in mainstream schools.  The survey is open until 13^th August and takes approx. 20 minutes to complete.