Government warned SEND reforms leave unanswered questions'

"The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has urged the government to clarify, as a matter of urgency, how it plans to support councils facing ongoing SEND deficits and the high costs of transporting children to school in taxis, coaches, and buses. This intervention follows ministers' unveiling of sweeping reforms to the SEND system, intended to make it more inclusive for children with additional needs and, in the long term, reduce costs for local authorities."

"PAC member Rachel Gilmour stated that MPs are pleased the government is 'beginning to grasp the nettle that is the SEND emergency.' But a problem this chronic and severe demands a response that does not leave any unanswered questions for children and families, she added."

The Public Accounts Committee has raised concerns about proposed reforms to the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system, stating that the government's plans leave significant gaps regarding home-to-school transport and council funding. While ministers have introduced sweeping reforms aimed at making the system more inclusive and reducing long-term costs for local authorities, the inquiry found these proposals do not adequately address the substantial financial pressures from transporting children to school. MPs have urged the government to urgently clarify how it will support councils facing ongoing SEND deficits and transportation expenses. Committee member Rachel Gilmour acknowledged the government's efforts but emphasized that such a severe crisis requires comprehensive solutions without unanswered questions for affected children and families.

Read at www.independent.co.uk