UK local authorities launch SEND reform and education programmes

Local authorities in Somerset and Nottinghamshire are implementing major reform programmes to improve support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

In Somerset, the council has approved an £8.9 million government capital investment to expand specialist education provision. The plan includes creating 104 new places in specialist inclusion bases across 11 mainstream schools, adding 24 places at The Mendip School, and establishing 42 inclusion support bases. The initiative aims to reduce long travel distances for students and decrease reliance on expensive independent placements outside the county.

In Nottinghamshire, a three-year SEND Reform Plan has received approval from the Department for Education. Supported by a £6 million boost, the programme focuses on providing earlier intervention, faster access to specialist advice, and improved local services. The plan includes the establishment of a Multi-Agency Alternative Education Team to assist children who are out of school or at risk of disengaging from education.