MP urges Plymouth families to ‘make their voices heard’ with new SEND survey

Rebecca Smith, MP for South West Devon, has launched a survey for families, carers and education professionals following the Government’s publication of a new Schools White Paper setting out major reforms to the SEND system.

The Government’s plans outline significant changes to how children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are supported in England.

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Under the proposals, Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) would be reserved for children with the most complex needs. 

Many other children would instead move onto “individual support plans” (ISPs), which would not carry the same legal protections as EHCPs.

The reforms also propose giving councils greater responsibility for school placements, while mainstream schools would be expected to provide more inclusive support. 

The Government has announced £4 billion in funding over three years to help deliver the changes, although questions remain nationally about how the funding will be allocated and whether it will be enough.

Launching her survey, Ms Smith said the changes represent a significant shift for families across Plymouth, South West Devon and surrounding areas including Dartmoor.

“These reforms are a major shift for children with SEND and their families,” she said. 

“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.”

She said the survey would give local residents an opportunity to share their experiences and concerns directly with her.

“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 asks about experiences with EHCPs and local authority support, access to suitable school placements, inclusive education, concerns about individual support plans and funding clarity, and suggestions for improving the SEND system.

Ms Smith added: “I encourage everyone affected by SEND to take a few minutes to complete this survey. 

“Your responses will directly inform my work in Parliament and help secure the safeguards that families need and deserve.”

The survey is available online via Rebecca Smith MP’s website.