Story perspectives

Government Unveils Ambitious SEND Reform Plan by 2035

2/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

The government plans special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) reform between 2030 and 2035 introducing a four-tier system that allows some children to be supported without an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
In 2026, the government will enhance SEND support in mainstream schools with specialist funding.
Existing EHCPs will be protected until 2030; £5 billion is allocated to reduce local authority deficits as councils face insolvency by March 2028.

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Story summary

The government plans special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) reform between 2030 and 2035 introducing a four-tier system that allows some children to be supported without an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
In 2026, the government will enhance SEND support in mainstream schools with specialist funding.
Existing EHCPs will be protected until 2030; £5 billion is allocated to reduce local authority deficits as councils face insolvency by March 2028.