THIS WEEK’S RADAR🎯

• EHCP Tool Spotlighted: Agilisys EHCP tool praised in the House of Lords — 35+ councils now improving plan speed and quality.

• Special Schools Underfunded: £419M real-terms shortfall is hitting EHCP provision — urgent action needed to protect quality of support.

• SEND Complaints Surge: 60% rise in Ofsted complaints highlights parental trust crisis and system strain.

• LGA Calls for Reform: Local Government Association urges overhaul of SEND system to ensure faster, more inclusive support.

• Norfolk SEND Delays: Funding gaps delaying 270 urgently needed special school places — MPs call for immediate government action.

🌟Agilisys EHCP Spotlighted in the House of Lords​🌟

🎥 From Innovation to Impact: EHCP Tool Spotlighted in the House of Lords

Government Technology can play an important role in helping alleviate some of the burden of the SEND crisis and it is great to hear government focusing on how technology can play a part in revolutionising digital services.

​The Agilisys EHCP tool - built with and for local authorities - was recently highlighted in the House of Lords as an example of how digital innovation can drive real-world impact in SEND services.

​The tool is being used by 35+ local authorities to draft EHCPs, ensuring families and children get the necessary support they need faster and to a higher quality! ​Hear what was said about the Agilisys EHCP tool in the House of Lords here and how your local authority can get involved and experience the transformative impact!

SEND BUDGETS

Special Schools Facing £419M Real-Terms Budget Shortfall

Two-thirds of special schools in England are operating with lower real-terms funding than 2010, with collective spending power diminished by £419 million according to the School Cuts campaign. Union analysis reveals 582 of 883 comparable settings have seen budget cuts, undermining the capacity to deliver specialized support for pupils with EHCPs. This funding crisis directly impacts the quality of provision EHCP case workers can secure for their most vulnerable clients.

SEND SYSTEM CHALLENGES

Rising Ofsted Complaints Highlight Challenges in SEND Support and Trust Crisis

Complaints to Ofsted about SEND provisions in state schools have surged 60% due to budget constraints and decreased trust in the system. Parents worry about losing tailored support plans, while government plans aim to overhaul the SEND system. Urgent action is needed to ensure adequate support for SEND students.

EDUCATION REFORM

Call for Urgent Reform of SEND System by Local Government Association

The Local Government Association (LGA) report calls for reforming the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system to provide timely support in schools without needing a statutory plan. This system overhaul aims to make inclusive education accessible and reduce the adversarial process in obtaining necessary support. Urgent changes are needed to address shortages in trained practitioners and promote integrated support across education and health services.

EDUCATION FUNDING CONCERNS

Calls Urge Government Action to Fund Norfolk's Awaited Special Schools

Construction delays for two Norfolk special schools in Downham Market and Great Yarmouth, intended for 270 students, are causing concern due to lack of government funding. Local MP Terry Jermy is urging the Education Secretary for immediate financial commitment, highlighting potential budget deficits and unmet needs for students with disabilities. The delay, exacerbated by rising costs for existing resources, threatens to leave students without necessary specialist placements.