Barnet is failing on SEND, a parents view
Dear Resident,
Many families across Childs Hill have contacted us with concerns about how Barnet Council is handling Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) for children with SEND.
The number of children needing EHCPs has risen rapidly in recent years, yet Barnet Council has struggled to keep up. Despite the legal requirement to process applications within 20 weeks, many families are waiting far longer, causing significant stress and uncertainty.
Public money is also being wasted when EHCP applications are rejected by the Council, only to be overturned later at tribunal.
Evidence shows that less well off families are often the ones losing out under the current system, as many do not have the time, resources or specialist knowledge needed to navigate the complex SEND process and challenge decisions.
As a parent who has personally navigated the SEND system, I understand how difficult and stressful it can be for families trying to secure the right support for their child.
There are also growing concerns about some private companies exploiting SEND provision, putting profit ahead of the quality of education and care that vulnerable children deserve.
The Labour government has proposed scaling back SEND provision so that only children with the most complex needs qualify for EHCPs. This risks leaving many families without the support they need.
The Liberal Democrats believe this is the wrong approach. We are calling for fairer funding so schools can provide high quality SEND support and for stronger oversight so public money is spent supporting children, not generating profit.
Sarah Hoyle and I both have personal and professional experience navigating the SEND system. Together we will advocate for better SEND provision for children in Childs Hill and hold the Council to account so that support reaches those who need it most.
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Donna Pickup
Childs Hill Campaign Team
P.S. The Liberal Democrats are the only credible challengers to Labour in our area.