Government Outlines Major Overhaul for Special Educational Needs System in England

February 23, 2026 - 20:04

Significant reforms to the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system in England have been unveiled by the government. The planned changes, set to be implemented over the coming years, aim to create a more consistent, transparent, and high-quality experience for children, young people, and their families.

Central to the new approach is the establishment of national standards. These standards will clearly define the types of support available across the country, aiming to end the current postcode lottery where provision varies dramatically between local authorities. The government states this will ensure every child receives a tailored education that meets their individual needs.

Furthermore, the reforms seek to streamline the often-criticised Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) process. The goal is to reduce bureaucratic delays and make the system less adversarial for families. A greater emphasis will also be placed on early intervention, helping to identify needs and provide support sooner within mainstream educational settings wherever possible.

The changes represent the government's response to a system widely acknowledged as being under immense strain. Ministers argue that the overhaul will improve outcomes for pupils, boost parental confidence, and ensure resources are used more effectively. The success of these ambitious plans will depend heavily on detailed implementation and sufficient long-term funding.