For millions of parents with children who have special educational needs, the sudden surge of media attention in 2024 was jarring and left many feeling unsettled. With each news story that emerged about the crisis in provision, it became increasingly apparent that local councils were struggling with an annual funding shortfall of at least £3 billion, even with the government's attempts to inject additional funds into the system. This financial strain not only threatens future support for children but also raises the specter of municipal bankruptcies across various councils in England.
The portrayal of special educational needs, particularly autism and ADHD, has become increasingly politicized. Culture warrior columnists have begun to question whether the term 'needs' is appropriate, suggesting that the rising diagnosis rates might be exaggerated and even connected to identity politics. This could imply that parents receiving help are unjustly benefiting from the system, while politicians like Kemi Badenoch have suggested the concept of neurodiversity is used as a shortcut for economic gain, pushing the narrative that children requiring assistance should simply adapt without support.
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