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One-Third of UK Councils Risk Bankruptcy Over SEND Costs

12/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

One in three councils in United Kingdom may face bankruptcy, per a recent survey on SEND spending.
The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) warns that government's decision to assume financial responsibility for SEND by 2028 could create a £20 billion deficit.
Councils have relied on temporary overdrafts to cover SEND deficits, which total about £4 billion.
The Department for Education disputes the OBR projections, citing misinterpreted funding sources.

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Story summary

One in three councils in United Kingdom may face bankruptcy, per a recent survey on SEND spending.
The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) warns that government's decision to assume financial responsibility for SEND by 2028 could create a £20 billion deficit.
Councils have relied on temporary overdrafts to cover SEND deficits, which total about £4 billion.
The Department for Education disputes the OBR projections, citing misinterpreted funding sources.