Story perspectives

Councils Invest Millions to Improve Special Needs Services

12/20/2025

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Council Funding Initiatives

Stoke-on-Trent City Council plans to spend up to £1.6 million on external educational psychologists.
Five of six EP positions are vacant, delaying EHCP assessments for children with special needs.
The council aims to improve SEND services while continuing recruitment for permanent staff.
Derbyshire County Council, under Reform UK, will spend £5 million on consultants to identify savings of up to £38.7 million amid discussions on job cuts.

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Council Spending Scrutiny

Sligo County Council faced criticism for its spending on consultants for the Active Travel Programme, as six projects await funding.
Councillor Thomas Walsh labeled the expenditure as bureaucratic and expressed frustration over high consultant fees.
Councillor Dara Mulvey supported Walsh's motion, arguing staff could handle the projects more efficiently and cost-effectively.
The debate highlights ongoing concerns about financial management and project execution within the council.

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Council Funding Initiatives

Stoke-on-Trent City Council plans to spend up to £1.6 million on external educational psychologists.
Five of six EP positions are vacant, delaying EHCP assessments for children with special needs.
The council aims to improve SEND services while continuing recruitment for permanent staff.
Derbyshire County Council, under Reform UK, will spend £5 million on consultants to identify savings of up to £38.7 million amid discussions on job cuts.

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