Redbridge is set to overhaul its services for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in response to a forthcoming government white paper, which is expected to champion an inclusive education commitment.
This initiative prioritises early support for children with SEND and aims to increase provision within mainstream schools, moving away from specialist settings. The changes also seek to foster greater collaboration between schools, local authorities, and health services, with a strong emphasis on early intervention to reduce disparities and improve outcomes for young people.
The Children and Young People Policy Development Committee discussed the implications of the white paper, which is expected in early 2026. The government has pledged £3 billion over four years to expand SEND education places nationwide, with £750 million allocated for 10,000 new places.
The white paper is expected to focus on five core principles: early intervention, local services, fair access, effective practices, and shared collaboration. Redbridge Council will be required to develop a plan assessing its current resources, identifying gaps, and outlining how it will deliver the new SEND framework. This will involve a maturity assessment
of its SEND services, co-produced with partners and stakeholders, including families and service providers.
The 'maturity assessment' will utilise a management tool with seven pillars. Each pillar will be graded as 'very early stages,' 'more developed,' or 'very mature,' indicating the level of development. This assessment will be co-produced with partners to ensure realism.
Councillor Javed raised concerns about staff morale and the need for clear communication regarding job security. He also stressed the importance of consulting with parents, whom he believes are the primary stakeholders. Officers assured the committee that parents are an absolute key partner
and will be involved in the planning process. The council is committed to engaging with families and service providers to co-produce plans
for council-wide SEND strategies, reflecting local priorities and challenges, rather than individual Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
The committee's next meeting, scheduled for March 16, 2026, will focus on agreeing the final annual report on SEND, including recommendations. This report will be informed by the discussions held during the current meeting and previous discussions on SEND in mainstream settings. Further details on the committee's work can be found in the Public reports pack and the Children and Young People Policy Development Committee Work Plan.
