Social, Emotional & Mental Health (SEMH)
Bexley Council is addressing challenges in Social, Emotional & Mental Health (SEMH) services as part of its SEND reforms.
In July 2026, a monitoring inspection by Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) found that Bexley's Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) reforms are showing progress. Improvements were noted in the timeliness and quality of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and in early identification for children with social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs.
However, challenges persist for Bexley Council, particularly in consistently embedding 'Preparation for Adulthood' (PfA) within annual reviews and addressing variations in complex 'Education Otherwise Than at School' (EOTAS) cases. These findings followed significant concerns raised in a December 2023 inspection and a subsequent monitoring visit in January 2026.
Key facts
- Bexley's SEND reforms show progress in EHCPs and early identification, a July 2026 inspection found. Source
- Challenges remain in embedding 'Preparation for Adulthood' and EOTAS cases for Bexley Council. Source
- Ofsted and CQC conducted a monitoring inspection in July 2026. Source
- Significant concerns were raised in a December 2023 inspection. Source
- A monitoring visit took place in January 2026. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.