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Jeremy Hunt Urges Reform Amid Rising Child Mental Health Diagnoses

8/29/2025

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Hunt Advocates SEND Reform

Jeremy Hunt, former health secretary, argues that children are overdiagnosed with mental health conditions and calls for reform of England's special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system.
He notes an increase in mental health and neurodevelopmental diagnoses since the pandemic, emphasizing the need for better support.
A Policy Exchange report suggests restricting education health and care plans (EHCPs) to special schools.
Critics contend that Hunt's remarks distract from government shortcomings, including cuts to mental health services and insufficient youth support.

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Taxpayers Demand SEND Reform

A report estimates that overdiagnosis of mental health conditions costs British taxpayers £16 billion each year, highlighting the need for SEND system reform.
Since 2015, half of school spending has been allocated to SEND, with costs expected to hit £11 billion by 2024/25.
Co-authors suggest the current system encourages diagnosis-seeking behavior, negatively impacting children with SEND.
Recommendations include restricting Education, Health and Care Plans to special schools and reforming the Child Disability Living Allowance.

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Hunt Advocates SEND Reform

Jeremy Hunt, former health secretary, argues that children are overdiagnosed with mental health conditions and calls for reform of England's special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system.
He notes an increase in mental health and neurodevelopmental diagnoses since the pandemic, emphasizing the need for better support.
A Policy Exchange report suggests restricting education health and care plans (EHCPs) to special schools.
Critics contend that Hunt's remarks distract from government shortcomings, including cuts to mental health services and insufficient youth support.

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