Wandsworth Council is grappling with significant challenges in its Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services, as demand surges and financial pressures mount. The Children's Overview and Scrutiny Committee convened on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, to scrutinise the current state of children's services, including substantial budget overspends and the implications of national SEND reforms.
Ian Dodds, Interim Executive Director of Children's Services, outlined proposals designed to safeguard the performance of children's services amidst escalating demand. He revealed that the current budget for children's services totals just over £100 million, with an existing overspend exceeding £4 million. The council has implemented mitigating actions valued at £1.4 million and is actively working to address a further £2.75 million shortfall, with the aim of bringing the budget back on track and preventing an overall overspend.
Councillor Judy Gasser voiced concerns regarding projected inflation figures, which were substantially higher than previous estimates. The committee requested a deeper examination of these figures, with a suggestion for Councillor Gasser to engage with the Finance Committee and for the Finance Director, Mrs. Mary, to provide a detailed explanation. These projected inflation figures were reported as 9.1 million, 13.6 million,
a significant increase from earlier estimates of 3 million, 4 million.
While the corporate finance team provided these figures, the specific goods and services they pertain to were not elaborated upon during the meeting.
The committee also reviewed the progress of task and finish groups focused on Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). Councillor George Crivelli, Cabinet Member for Children, affirmed that Wandsworth is closely aligned with national SEND reforms. These reforms centre on early intervention, enhancing communication with families, and embedding inclusive practices. To this end, the council has submitted its local SEND reform plan to the Department for Education (DfE). Over the past four years, Wandsworth has invested £45 million in its SEND services.
Despite these proactive measures, significant hurdles persist. An update on SEND services indicated that while Wandsworth has maintained 100% compliance with statutory EHCP timelines for three consecutive years, the escalating demand and increasing complexity of needs are placing considerable pressure on the high needs block. Parents have articulated specific concerns regarding the transition of children into mainstream schools and the adequacy of the support provided. In response, the council is actively working to foster greater confidence in the school system and to co-produce support plans collaboratively with families.
The national trend of pressure on the high needs block is also evident in Wandsworth. While an action plan has been submitted to the DfE, the long-term financial outlook for SEND services remains uncertain. The sentiment from the meeting suggests that the current situation is challenging and may necessitate legislative changes to achieve long-term sustainability.