Hounslow Council has formally accepted the findings of the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman (LGSCO) regarding failures in its Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision. The Ombudsman found fault in the Council's failure to secure specified speech and language therapy and occupational therapy for a child, Y, as outlined in her Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan. The omission of these therapies resulted in a loss of provision affecting Y's educational progress, disruption linked to a change of placement, and distress to her father, Mr X.
The LGSCO's investigation highlighted that the Council's duty to secure provision under section 42 of the Children and Families Act 2014 is non-delegable, meaning the responsibility ultimately rests with the Council, irrespective of where the child is educated. The Council also failed to provide Mr X with sufficient advice and information regarding school placement decisions. Specifically, the Council did not explain its absolute duty to secure the special educational provision included in Y's EHC Plan, regardless of her placement. This lack of clarity led Mr X to believe that moving Y to a different school was the only way she could receive the necessary therapy, causing him distress and Y disruption during her transition.
The Council has accepted these findings and has implemented the recommended remedies. This includes an apology to Mr X and his daughter Y, along with financial compensation totalling £1,700. The compensation comprises £1,200 to recognise Y's loss of provision from January to the end of July 2024, and £500 to acknowledge the distress caused to Mr X.
In response to the LGSCO's recommendations for service improvements, Hounslow Council has outlined a plan to strengthen its SEND provision. This includes enhanced staff training on statutory duties to ensure staff are fully equipped to share relevant information. The effectiveness of this training will be monitored through regular audits of EHC Plan delivery, strengthened management oversight, and monitoring through complaints and casework.
Furthermore, the Council will develop clearer arrangements for securing therapy provision for children educated in other local authority areas. These future arrangements will introduce clearer oversight and accountability mechanisms. The Council also continues to expand in-borough places to reduce reliance on out-of-area placements.
Councillor Madeeha Asim, Portfolio Holder for Children and Young Futures, stated that the Council is strongly committed to making continuous improvements in its SEND provision.
The proposed actions aim to enhance oversight of EHC Plan provision, improve communication with parents, and strengthen arrangements for out-of-area placements, ultimately benefiting children with SEND and their families.
More information on council meetings and reports can be found in the Public reports pack, Agenda frontsheet, and Printed minutes for the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 14 July 2026.
