SEND improvements will help children get support earlier and closer to home

The council's three-year Local SEND Reform Plan is focused on making it easier for children and young people to get the support they need, when they need it, to help them thrive at school, at home and in their local communities.

The plan has been developed with local schools, early years providers, health partners and parent carers. It sets out how support will become easier to access, with more help available at an earlier stage and a stronger focus on helping children attend their local school wherever possible.

The improvements will include:

• Making schools and early years settings more inclusive and better equipped to support children with SEND.
• Providing more support for children and families while they wait for assessments or diagnoses.
• Improving the experience of families who need help from SEND services.
• Strengthening specialist support for children with more complex needs.

The Department for Education has approved Buckinghamshire Council’s plan, describing it as "a clear and coherent vision centred on inclusion, earlier intervention and improved outcomes."

Carl Jackson, Buckinghamshire Council's Cabinet Member for Education and Children's Services, said:

“Improving SEND services is one of our highest priorities. I do not want parents to feel they have to fight for the support their child needs.

“While this plan marks important progress, there is more to do. The council’s focus is on making sure children get the right support earlier and closer to home, helping them achieve their potential and live healthy, independent lives.

“I am pleased the Department for Education has recognised the strength of the council’s plans, giving us the opportunity to keep improving support for local families.

“Implementation is already beginning, with schools, partners and services working together. Families and schools can expect to see more changes introduced over the next two to three years as the programme is delivered."