Send support for schoolchildren in England to be given £4bn overhaul

The Guardian World

by Jessica Elgot Deputy political editor

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The UK government is set to unveil a major overhaul of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) support in schools in England, with a £4bn investment aimed at transforming provision. This "generational" reform package includes a warning to local councils: failure to meet legal duties could result in the loss of control over SEND services. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson and Prime Minister Keir Starmer view this as a key policy moment, following delays last autumn due to fierce opposition from MPs and parents. The reforms aim to address long-standing criticisms of the SEND system, which has faced widespread condemnation for inadequate support and inconsistent implementation. The £4bn funding package is designed to improve access to services, streamline processes, and ensure better outcomes for children with special educational needs. Local authorities will be held accountable for meeting their legal obligations under the Children and Families Act, with the government threatening intervention if they fall short. This announcement comes after significant pressure from stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and campaigners who have highlighted systemic failures in the current system. The reforms are intended to tackle issues such as long waiting times, insufficient support staff, and fragmented services. By centralizing control over SEND provision in areas where local councils fail, the government aims to ensure that all children receive the support they need. The overhaul is a major policy shift for the Labour government, signaling its commitment to addressing inequalities in education. The success of these reforms will be closely watched by educators, parents, and policymakers alike, as they aim to create a more inclusive and effective SEND system. For Keir Starmer and Bridget Phillipson, this could be a defining

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