The government has released a new SEND White Paper. This paper explains the changes they want to make to the SEND system in England. It does not change the law straight away. It shares ideas for how the system could work better in the future.
What the White Paper aims to do:
The White Paper focuses on making SEND support more fair, clear and consistent for families. It explains how the government wants to:
- Prioritise early intervention so children get the right support as soon as possible.
- Increase fairness and consistency in how SEND needs are identified and supported across the country.
- Provide clear, evidence‑based expectations for what good SEND support should look like in all settings.
- Rebuild confidence in the SEND system by putting families’ experiences and voices at the centre of reforms.
- Create a more inclusive, high‑quality support system for all children and young people with SEND.
These ideas are plans, not new rules. Nothing in your child’s current support or rights changes today.
What happens next?
Now that the White Paper has been published, the next steps will include:
- A consultation period – This is when parents, carers, professionals and organisations can give their views about the proposals.
- Government review – The government will look at everyone’s feedback and may make changes to the plan.
- Parliament process – Only after this will any new laws be discussed.
This whole process takes time. Your child’s current support will continue as normal during this period.
We know this may feel worrying
We understand that news about changes to SEND can cause worry or stress. Many parents have concerns about what the future might look like for their child.
Please remember:
- Your child’s rights and support stay the same for now
- Nothing changes immediately
- We are here to help you understand the proposals
The DfE wants to hear the views of anyone with an interest in SEND, especially those working in schools and other educational settings, on its proposed reforms through its formal consultation.
Families and young people are also welcome to share their views by clicking the link - proposed reforms through their formal consultation
The DfE has produced a range of accessible materials, including information briefings, an Easy Read summary and a British Sign Language video of the proposals. These are available on the link above.
Have your say: DfE's SEND consultation (open until 18 May)
The DfE wants to hear the views of anyone with an interest in SEND, especially those working in schools and other educational settings, on its proposed reforms through its formal consultation.
Families and young people are also welcome to share their views by clicking the link - proposed reforms through their formal consultation.