Families encouraged to feed into SEND conversation

Parents and carers in Wolverhampton are being encouraged to contribute to the government's "national conversation" on special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) services ahead of reforms being set out later in 2026.

A delayed White Paper on SEND improvements will be published later this year and people are being asked to get involved in a series of online events and discussions.

The Department for Education project was not formal consultation, but a way to explore ideas, the city council said.

In June, Wolverhampton West MP Warinder Juss called on the government to review SEND funding.

The request came after data suggested nearly one in five pupils in England were receiving support with SEND challenges in the classroom.

Government figures showed there were more than 100,000 extra pupils with SEND in England in 2023-24 than the previous 12-month period.

Public consultation is due to follow the publication of the White Paper.

Before then, people can share their views in online conversation until 14 January, or join the final online event with Schools Minister Georgia Gould on the same day.

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, cabinet member for children, young people and education at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: "We know how vital SEND services are to families in Wolverhampton, and it's essential that local voices are heard in shaping national reforms.

"Any national changes will directly affect how SEND is delivered locally. That's why your voice counts. We encourage as many families, carers, and professionals as possible to take part in this important discussion and help influence the future of SEND provision, ensuring every child and young person has the opportunity to thrive."

In the summer, parents in Wolverhampton were asked to give their feedback about provision in the city to help the council evaluate the effectiveness of the services.

A new forum for parents and carers of children and young people with SEND had since been set up, the city council said.

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