Head of Integrated SEND Services
Lewisham Council is currently focused on improving integrated SEND services performance and managing national reform implementation.
Lewisham Council is currently focused on improving the timeliness of annual reviews for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), a key aspect of integrated SEND services. In September 2026, the Children and Young People Select Committee heard that the council has doubled the speed of issuing notification letters for EHCP reviews since 2024, with nearly 50% of 2026 reviews completed.
The council is also preparing for national reforms to enhance support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Lewisham submitted a Local SEND Reform Plan (LSRP) to the Secretary of State in June 2026, with a decision on its approval, which could write off up to 90% of the £24.4 million High Needs Block deficit, anticipated in September 2026.
The Head of Integrated SEND Services is the senior leadership position responsible for overseeing integrated services related to Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). These improvements in EHCP reviews follow an investigation by the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman into parental complaints in 2024 and 2025.
Key facts
- In September 2026, Lewisham Council reported nearly 50% of 2026 EHCP reviews completed. Source
- Lewisham Council doubled the speed of issuing EHCP review notification letters since 2024. Source
- Lewisham submitted its Local SEND Reform Plan to the Secretary of State in June 2026. Source
- A decision on Lewisham's Local SEND Reform Plan was anticipated in September 2026. Source
- Lewisham's High Needs Block deficit stood at £24.4 million as of March 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.