2026/27 Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) mandate
Lewisham Schools Forum is considering transferring funds from the Schools Block to address a projected deficit in the High Needs Block for the 2026/27 Dedicated Schools Grant.
Lewisham Schools Forum discussed transferring funds from the Schools Block to the High Needs Block (HNB) for the 2026/27 Dedicated Schools Grant mandate in December 2025. This consideration aims to address significant financial pressures within the HNB, which funds special educational needs provisions. A report to the forum indicated the HNB had an overspend of £3m in 2024/25, with a projected cumulative deficit of £18.6m.
The Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) provides funding for schools, with specific allocations for different areas, including the High Needs Block. The 2026/27 mandate sets the framework for how these funds will be distributed. The potential transfer of funds, as discussed by Lewisham Schools Forum, highlights ongoing challenges in balancing funding across different educational needs.
Key facts
- Lewisham Schools Forum discussed transferring funds for the 2026/27 DSG mandate in December 2025. Source
- The High Needs Block (HNB) had a £3m overspend in 2024/25. Source
- The HNB had a projected cumulative deficit of £18.6m. Source
- Funds are considered for transfer from the Schools Block to the High Needs Block. 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.