Ministers say billions in SEND funding will make schools more inclusive

BBC World

February 22, 2026

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The UK government has announced a significant investment of billions of pounds to enhance inclusivity in mainstream schools for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This includes £1.6 billion over three years directly supporting schools, early years settings, and colleges, along with £1.8 billion to increase access to specialist services like speech and language therapy. However, teaching unions have expressed skepticism, arguing that the funding is insufficient compared to the long-term underfunding of the SEND system. The government's plans also include major reforms, such as reviewing children’s Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) after primary school and following GCSEs. This could lead to fewer EHCPs being retained in secondary school, potentially raising concerns among parents about reduced support for their children during critical transition periods. Disability charities have criticized this approach, warning that it could destabilize existing support systems. The leaked proposals also introduce Individual Support Plans (ISPs) with legal backing for all SEND pupils, aiming to provide tailored support. Currently, only around 480,000 out of 1.7 million pupils with SEND in England have EHCPs. The government has emphasized that this funding increase does not mean reducing effective support but rather ensuring resources are better targeted. Critics like NASUWT’s Matt Wrack argue that the additional funding, while substantial on paper, amounts to relatively small sums per school and setting. Experts, such as Luke Sibieta from the Institute for Fiscal Studies, acknowledge the reforms as a significant step but caution that overhauling the system will be complex and require careful planning to avoid disrupting existing support. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has praised the changes, highlighting that families will receive "tailored support" closer to home. Bridget Phillipson, Education Secretary, described these reforms as a "watershed moment," stressing that more money is being spent overall on SEND support. While some stakeholders welcome the principle of increased funding for mainstream schools, there are concerns about whether it will be sufficient and how it will affect children who need specialized care. The government's focus on inclusivity in education aligns with broader goals of social equity and opportunity for all children, regardless of background or ability. However, the

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Originally published on BBC World on 2/22/2026