national SEND reforms
Councils are currently addressing significant financial deficits in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities provision while implementing national reforms.
Richmond upon Thames Council's Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision is projected to face a £10.6 million deficit this year, potentially reaching £11 million by 2026/27, according to a report to the Education and Children's Services Committee in September 2026. This shortfall, driven by increased costs for high-needs education, could impact funding for non-education services.
In July 2026, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet approved a £4.5 million investment from a Department for Education grant to enhance children's therapy services within mainstream schools, as part of the government's national SEND reforms focusing on early intervention. Richmond upon Thames' Education and Children's Services Committee also endorsed a SEND Reform Plan for submission to the Department for Education in June 2026.
The national SEND reforms are government initiatives aimed at improving support for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. The Greenwich Schools Forum is scheduled to discuss this topic on 7 October 2026, following earlier discussions by Kingston upon Thames and Lewisham Schools Forums in June 2026 regarding financial outlooks and future plans.
Key facts
- Richmond's SEND provision is projected to face a £10.6 million deficit this year. Source
- Hillingdon Council's Cabinet approved a £4.5 million investment for children's therapy services in July 2026. Source
- Richmond's Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) is forecast to overspend by £10.677 million this year. Source
- Richmond's future SEND deficits are projected to reach £11 million by 2026/27. 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.