Minister says children in England will get support more quickly under Send overhaul

The Guardian World

by Jessica Elgot Deputy political editor

February 22, 2026

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The UK government has announced a significant overhaul of special educational needs (SEN) support for children in England, with Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasizing that reforms will be implemented within weeks rather than months. Speaking ahead of the publication of the white paper outlining the changes, Phillipson stated that the goal is to treat children with special needs as an integral part of the school system, rather than addressing their needs as a separate issue. She described the shift as part of a decade-long adjustment period aimed at giving schools and families time to adapt. Current SEN support frameworks have faced criticism for being overly complex and slow to respond, often leaving parents frustrated and children without timely assistance. Phillipson defended the changes, clarifying that the government is not removing support but reorganizing it to ensure swifter access. The reforms are expected to streamline processes, making schools more directly responsible for identifying and supporting children with special needs while providing better resources and training for teachers. The move has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising the potential for improved outcomes and reduced bureaucracy, while others express concerns about the impact on existing services and the ability of schools to meet new expectations. Phillipson stressed that the changes are designed to create a more inclusive education system where children with special needs are supported as part of the broader school community. This overhaul highlights the UK government’s commitment to addressing long-standing issues in SEN support, which has been a contentious topic for years. By prioritizing speed and integration, the reforms aim to ensure that children receive the help they need without unnecessary delays or barriers. As other countries grapple with similar challenges in education systems, this approach could offer lessons on balancing efficiency and equity in special needs support. Ultimately, the changes reflect a broader shift in how the UK government views special educational needs, moving away from a fragmented system to one that prioritizes integration and accessibility. While the long-term impact remains to be seen, the reforms signal a significant step toward creating a more responsive and supportive education system for all children.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/22/2026