MP Gareth Snell hears directly from parents at SEND Consultation Event in Stoke‑on‑Trent

MP Gareth Snell hears directly from parents at SEND Consultation Event in Stoke‑on‑Trent

Gareth Snell MP has reaffirmed his commitment to improving support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) after attending a consultation event organised by PEGiS – Parent Engagement Group in Stoke.

The event brought together parents, carers and professionals from across Stoke‑on‑Trent to share their views on the Government’s SEND White Paper consultation, providing a valuable platform for those with lived experience to raise concerns, ask questions and help shape future policy.

Gareth said “I was grateful to meet so many parents and professionals and to hear directly from families about the challenges they face.

“This was a really important opportunity for parents, carers and professionals to have their say on the SEND White Paper and to make sure their voices are heard. We want all children and young people, including those with SEND, to get the right support at the right time so they can succeed in education and thrive in adult life.”

Mr Snell acknowledged that the current SEND system is not working as it should, particularly around delays in issuing Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). While plans are meant to be issued within 20 weeks of application, the latest figures show that in 2023 only around half of new EHCPs were completed within this timeframe.

The Government continues to work with parents, professionals and experts through its Inclusion Expert Advisory Group, as well as engaging regularly with organisations such as the Disabled Children’s Partnership, to ensure reforms are shaped by those directly affected.

Mr Snell also highlighted the importance of improving inclusivity within mainstream education, where the majority of children with SEND are educated.

“Making mainstream schools more inclusive is essential. That’s why I welcome the government’s commitment of £740 million to create 10,000 new school places for children with SEND, through adaptations in mainstream schools.”

The funding will support improvements to school facilities so they are better equipped to meet a wider range of needs. Currently fewer than one in ten mainstream schools have specialist facilities for pupils with SEND. This investment could allow at least 15,000 more children and young people to have their needs met locally, strengthening inclusion and improving outcomes.

Parents, carers and professionals are encouraged to take part in the SEND White Paper consultation to help shape future reforms: SEND reform: putting children and young people first – Department for Education – Citizen Space