UK SEND Funding Pressures Drive Calls For Reform And Increased Support

Debate over funding for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in England has intensified as local authorities face growing financial challenges and policy changes are under consideration.

A cross-party group of Members of Parliament called for the UK government to boost funding for SEND in schools and ensure that resources are matched to actual levels of need. The group also stated that school budgets for SEND should be protected against inflation to maintain support for students requiring additional assistance.

Local authorities in England are experiencing substantial financial pressure as a result of increasing SEND costs. According to recent figures, 95% of top-tier councils are currently running deficits, and 79% are projected to face insolvency by 2028 if current trends continue. The total accumulated deficit linked to SEND is expected to reach £14 billion within two years.

The government has announced plans to address these issues through an upcoming white paper on SEND reforms. Ministers are seeking support from opposition parties for proposals that include raising the eligibility threshold for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). The proposed reforms also involve a commitment of more than £3 billion for specialist school units and £200 million for teacher training.

What the numbers show

• In 2025-26, high-needs funding increased by £1 billion
• Core schools funding is set to rise from £65.3 billion in 2025-26 to £69.5 billion by 2028-29
• More than 1.7 million children and young people in England have SEND
• Projected SEND-related deficits for councils could total £14 billion in two years

Over the current spending review period, the UK government has raised core school funding, including SEND allocations, with a planned increase from £65.3 billion in 2025-26 to £69.5 billion by 2028-29. In addition, £740 million in capital funding was provided for SEND in the 2025-26 financial year.

The Department for Education stated its ongoing commitment to supporting children with SEND through increased funding and systemic improvements. These measures include expanded teacher training and the development of additional specialist school placements to address the needs of students with SEND.

More than 1.7 million children and young people in England are identified as having SEND, with most of them attending mainstream schools. The rising demand for support has contributed to the financial pressures faced by local authorities and the education sector.

Industry reaction

A coalition of over 130 charities, coordinated by the Disabled Children’s Partnership, stated that ministers should avoid reducing legal protections such as EHCPs and the SEND tribunal during the reform process. The group highlighted the importance of maintaining these safeguards for children and families accessing SEND support.

The Department for Education reiterated its position that it is committed to providing substantial funding and implementing systemic improvements for children with SEND. The department said these efforts include investments in teacher training and specialist school placements as part of the broader reform agenda.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.