What is the situation in Devon for special educational needs?
South West Devon's MP is asking parents for their experiences ahead of major reforms of the system
South West Devon's MP has launched a survey to understand the local situation for students with special educational needs.
This week the Government said it would invest £4-billion to help pupils be better supported in mainstream schools which would see Education, Health and Care Plans reserved for children with the most complex needs, individual support plans and councils given greater responsibility for school placements.
Doctor Victoria Bamsey is an expert in special needs and associate professor at the University of Plymouth who has welcomed the intentions, but warned: "It's how the money is being spent.
"At the end of the day we want inclusive schools, we want all our children to feel able to participate within their local mainstream school but at the moment too many children feel they are not able to.
"What do these inclusive hubs look like in schools? There's additional money in terms of capital funding, capital expenditure to support that but how much money are we seeing which is in addition to the money we're spending on special educational needs."
Miss Smith (cons) said: "These reforms are a major shift for children with SEND and their families. Every child deserves the right support and parents must have confidence that protections are not weakened and funding is delivered where it’s needed most."
"This survey is your chance to make your voice heard. Whether you are a parent, carer, teacher or family member supporting a child with SEND, your experiences will help me hold the government to account and ensure these reforms truly work for the children who rely on them."
The survey can be completed online here