SEND reforms

The new SEND White Paper – what it means for you

The government has released a new SEND White Paper today . This paper explains the changes they want to make to the SEND system in England. It does not change the law straight away. It shares ideas for how the system could work better in the future.

What the White Paper aims to do:

The White Paper focuses on making SEND support more fair, clear and consistent for families. It explains how the government wants to:

  • Prioritise early intervention so children get the right support as soon as possible. 
  • Increase fairness and consistency in how SEND needs are identified and supported across the country.
  • Provide clear, evidence‑based expectations for what good SEND support should look like in all settings. 
  • Rebuild confidence in the SEND system by putting families’ experiences and voices at the centre of reforms.
  • Create a more inclusive, high‑quality support system for all children and young people with SEND.

These ideas are plans, not new rules. Nothing in your child’s current support or rights changes today.

What happens next?

Now that the White Paper has been published, the next steps will include:

  1. A consultation period – This is when parents, carers, professionals and organisations can give their views about the proposals.
  2. Government review – The government will look at everyone’s feedback and may make changes to the plan.
  3. Parliament process – Only after this will any new laws be discussed.

This whole process takes time. Your child’s current support will continue as normal during this period.

How you can get involved

There will be chances for you to:

  • Take part in the consultation and share your views at a national level

  • Attend local events about the SEND Reforms to help us to coproduce our own local plan

  • Give feedback through parent forums or SEND groups at the monthly SEND Community Lounge

As soon as we have confirmed dates, links or events, we will add them to this page.

We know this may feel worrying

We understand that news about changes to SEND can cause worry or stress. Many parents have concerns about what the future might look like for their child.

Please remember:

  • Your child’s rights and support stay the same for now
  • Nothing changes immediately
  • We are here to help you understand the proposals

If you feel unsure or concerned, you can contact our SEND team. We are happy to talk things through.

We will keep you updated

We will share clear information as soon as we know more. Our aim is to help you understand what is happening and what it means for your family. Please check this page for updates in the coming days and weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the SEND White Paper?

The SEND White Paper is a document published by the government. It explains the changes they want to make to the SEND system in the future. It is not a new law.

2. Does the White Paper change my child’s support right now?

No. Nothing changes straight away. Your child’s current support and legal rights stay the same for now.

3. Why is the government making these changes?

The government says it wants to make SEND support more fair, more consistent and quicker for families. The White Paper sets out their ideas for how to do this.

4. Will EHCPs stay the same?

Yes. EHCPs stay the same for now. Any changes suggested in the White Paper will take time and will only happen after consultation and new laws.

5. Should I be worried about the changes?

We understand parents may feel anxious. But nothing changes today. You will have time to understand the proposals and give your views.

6. How can I have my say?

There will be a consultation where parents and carers can share their thoughts. We will post details on this website as soon as they are confirmed.

7. Who can I talk to if I have questions?

You can contact our SEND team for advice or support. We are here to help you understand what the plans might mean for your family.

8. How long will it take before anything changes?

It can take a long time for new laws to be agreed and put in place. During this time, your child’s support continues as normal.

9. Will you update this page?

Yes. We will update this page whenever new information is shared. We want you to always have clear, simple updates.