Thinktank sets up taskforce to improve SEND support

The ‘IPPR Inclusion Taskforce’ will bring together leading experts in education, health and local government to set out a “positive new vision” with proposals for how the system can be reformed, ahead of a Government White Paper expected in autumn that will set out reform proposals.

Chaired by Geoff Barton, former general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, the group will examine the current state of SEND provision and set out principles that should guide reform of the system to ensure that every child receives the support they need to thrive.

One in five children are now identified with special educational needs, equivalent to six children in every classroom. Support for the most complex types of needs – delivered through Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) – has doubled since 2014.

The IPPR warned that children with SEND “continue to have poor outcomes”, the system is “adversarial for families” and “impractical and bureaucratic for professionals to navigate”.

Geoff Barton said: “Too many families face a daily struggle to get the right support for their children. This taskforce will bring fresh thinking and a clear focus on delivering the change that’s urgently needed to make our education system work for every child.

“After 15 years leading a state school and then a national education union, I know how complex and challenging the SEND system can be - for families, for schools, and most of all for the children it is supposed to support. Too often, getting the right help takes too long, feels too hard, and leaves young people feeling left out. We must do better on their behalf.  

“I am proud to chair this taskforce to help shape a system that works for every child, and to ensure no one is left behind.”

According to the IPPR, other members of the taskforce will be announced in the coming weeks.  

Lottie Winson