Government Faces Backlash Over Special Needs Education Reforms
Downing Street is under fire for proposed changes to special needs education in England, with concerns raised by MPs, campaigners, and parents. A letter signed by various charities and public figures warns that the reforms could jeopardize vital support for over 600,000 children. Labour MPs are questioning the lack of clarity surrounding the shake-up, fearing a potential backlash similar to the recent welfare bill retreat.

Downing Street is facing another battle over the overhaul of special needs education for children in England. Concerns have been raised by MPs, campaigners, and parents about the potential impact of the reforms on the vital education, health, and care plans (EHCPs) relied upon by over 600,000 children and young people.
A letter signed by numerous special needs and disability charities and campaigners, including public figures like Chris Packham and Sally Phillips, highlights the fear that the reforms could lead to restrictions or abolishment of EHCPs, potentially denying essential provisions to thousands of children.
Labour MPs are expressing worries about the lack of clarity on key details of the SEN shake-up proposed in the upcoming schools white paper. There are concerns that the future of EHCPs could spark a rebellion similar to the recent welfare bill backlash.
The letter published in The Guardian reflects the growing public unease despite reassurances from the education secretary that no final decisions have been made regarding EHCPs.
Discussions reportedly include phasing out EHCPs over time or limiting them to the most severe cases of need. The potential changes have raised fears among MPs and campaigners about the future of special needs education in mainstream schools.
EHCPs, introduced in 2014, provide crucial support for children with special needs or disabilities. The increasing number of EHCPs has strained local authority budgets, leading to concerns about the sustainability of the current system.
According to the source: The Guardian.
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