The UK government is preparing to unveil a major overhaul of special educational needs and disabilities (Send) support in schools across England, injecting £4 billion into the system. This initiative comes as a response to growing concerns about the effectiveness of current Send services and the legal obligations that councils must meet. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, who previously postponed these reforms due to significant backlash, emphasizes that the changes will enhance rather than diminish support for affected children. This overhaul is positioned as a critical policy move for Keir Starmer's leadership and aims to define a new era in educational support.

Phillipson's reform strategy includes comprehensive investment for tailored specialist support, which will be extended to all mainstream schools, along with the introduction of 60,000 additional staff to assist in delivering these services. This significant funding is particularly welcomed in the context of previous fears that the changes could entail cuts to already struggling services, given the escalating demand and costs associated with Send provisions. The commitment to these funds signals the government's recognition of the need for robust support systems that cater to the diverse needs of students with special educational requirements.

This overhaul is likely to have far-reaching implications for councils, as they are warned they may lose control of Send services if they fail to comply with legal standards. As this reform is rolled out, it will not only reshape the educational landscape in England but is also expected to influence broader discussions on educational equity and inclusivity, marking it as a pivotal moment in educational policy.