England’s Special Needs Crisis Threatens Children and Council Finances

A parliamentary report warns of systemic failures in special educational needs support, risking a 'lost generation' and financial collapse for local authorities.

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has criticized the government for failing to address systemic issues in England’s special educational needs and disabilities (Send) system, calling the situation an emergency.
Nearly half of councils with education responsibilities face potential bankruptcy by 2026 due to rising costs and deficits tied to Send support, with a cumulative shortfall projected at £4.6 billion.
Families face significant disparities in accessing support, with wide variations in the timely issuance of legally binding Education, Health, and Care (EHC) plans across local authorities.
Demand for Send support has surged, with a 140% increase in children requiring EHC plans since 2015, driven by greater recognition of needs such as autism and ADHD.
The PAC has called for urgent government reforms, including a clear action plan within six months, to address inequities, improve outcomes, and stabilize council finances.