Parents across England are deeply worried about losing vital support for children with learning disabilities, as reported by The Guardian: https://bit.ly/4bXdXu6

In response, Norwood’s Chief Executive Naomi Dickson said: “With a recent survey finding that 45% of parents are nervous abut forthcoming SEND reform, Norwood is concerned about the risk posed to children’s entitlement to appropriate support as part of wider SEN reform.

Whilst we agree with the government that the current system isn’t delivering on its commitment to ensuring every child has the most appropriate support to meet their needs, schools are already under immense pressure with insufficient resources and funding to meet the needs of each child, many of whom are left without any support pending a diagnosis. Families without diagnosis already face significant barriers, with unreasonably high thresholds to accessing support.

We have already seen cuts to future applicants for PIP disability benefits; if children are likewise subjected to funding cuts, as a result of being deemed ineligible for funding, we risk condemning future generations to unequal educational opportunities. Meanwhile, children and their families will have insufficient statutory support, leaving charities like Norwood will have to step fill the gaps, with wraparound support.

The wraparound support we provide to children and families is almost entirely funded through voluntary donations, with only our short breaks services receiving statutory funding.

We call on the government to work with ourselves and other specialist providers in the sector, as well as taking into account the lived experiences of families navigating the system to ensure that any reform prioritises early, needs-led intervention, regardless of diagnostic status. This would allow families to get help sooner and reduce long-term harm.”