special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
Redbridge Council plans to use spare school capacity for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) as demand for specialist support rises.
Redbridge Council is planning to use spare school space for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) as demand for specialist support increases. In November 2026, the council began implementing its School Organisation Strategy for 2026-2031, aiming to balance falling mainstream pupil numbers with a rising need for SEND provision. A report noted that Education, Health and Care Plans for primary-aged children in Redbridge rose by 60% between January 2022 and May 2026.
Other councils have also been discussing SEND provision. In October 2026, Hackney's Children and Young People Scrutiny Commission discussed housing support for families of children with SEND. Sutton's People Committee reviewed updates on SEND services in September 2026, while Kingston upon Thames' People Committee noted progress on its SEND Futures Plan in September 2026. Newham's Cabinet and Bromley's Information Briefings are scheduled to discuss SEND in November 2026.
Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) refers to the educational support required for children and young people who have learning difficulties or disabilities that make it harder for them to learn than most of their peers. Councils are working to ensure appropriate provision and support services are available for these children and their families.
Key facts
- Redbridge Council is implementing a School Organisation Strategy for 2026-2031 to address declining mainstream pupil numbers and rising SEND demand. Source
- Between January 2022 and May 2026, Education, Health and Care Plans for primary-aged children in Redbridge increased by 60%. Source
- Redbridge plans to use spare school space for children with special educational needs and disabilities. 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 12 November 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.
