high-needs education
Richmond upon Thames Council is addressing a projected £10.6 million deficit in its high-needs education provision.
A report to Richmond upon Thames Council's Education and Children's Services Committee in September 2026 projected a £10.6 million deficit in the borough's Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision for the current year. This significant shortfall is primarily attributed to increased costs associated with high-needs education for SEND alternative provision.
The report indicated that the Dedicated Schools Grant is forecast to overspend by £10.677 million this year, with future deficits projected to reach £11 million by 2026/27. This financial pressure could impact funding available for non-education services in future years, as councils work through the challenges of providing high-needs education for students with significant special educational needs.
Key facts
- Richmond's SEND provision is projected to face a £10.6 million deficit this year. Source
- The Dedicated Schools Grant is forecast to overspend by £10.677 million this year. Source
- Future deficits for SEND provision are projected to reach £11 million by 2026/27. Source
- A report on the deficit was presented to the Education and Children's Services Committee in September 2026. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. 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.