Understanding SEND Reforms

Information for Parent Carers

SEND reforms are being discussed across England and may bring changes to how support is provided for children and young people with SEND.

This presentation aims to help parent carers:

• Understand the proposed changes

• Consider how they may affect children and young people with SEND

• Find sources of information and support

• Feel more confident when asking questions and seeking advice

Key Message

Parent carers play a vital role in helping children and young people access the support they need.

Please note: SEND reforms continue to develop. The information in this presentation reflects what is

known at the time of publication and should not be considered legal advice.

What do we know so far

Proposed Changes to SEND Support

* Greater focus on inclusion There are proposals to support more children and young people with SEND in mainstream educational settings where appropriate.

* More consistent support The aim is to reduce differences in SEND support across different areas.

* Earlier identification and support There is a continued focus on identifying needs early and providing support as soon as possible.

* Further information is expected Some details are still being discussed and may change as future

guidance is published.

Key Message

The overall aim is to improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND while making support more consistent and accessible.

What is this?

The Assess, Plan, Do, Review Cycle

Supporting your child's progress

The Assess, Plan, Do, Review cycle is a graduated approach used by schools to identify needs, provide support, and monitor progress.

1. Assess

Understand your child's strengths, needs, and any barriers to learning.

2. Plan

Agree outcomes and decide what support will be put in place.

3. Do

Provide the agreed support and strategies.

4. Review

Look at what is working, discuss progress, and decide on any next steps.

Key Message

Parent carers are an important part of every stage of the Assess, Plan, Do, Review cycle.

Your views and knowledge of your child help shape the support they receive.

Understanding SEND Support

Children and young people can receive support in different ways

With an EHCP

* A legally binding plan that sets out a child's needs and the support required

* Can include input from education, health and social care services

* Reviewed regularly to ensure support remains appropriate

Without an EHCP

* Support provided through the school's SEND arrangements

* Reasonable Adjustments and interventions based on an individual's needs

* Regular monitoring and review of progress

Key Message

Every child is different. The type of support they receive should be based on their individual needs and circumstances.

* Remember: Support should be based on a child's individual needs, whether or not they have an EHCP."

Parent Voice

What We Are Hearing from Parent Carers

* Concerns about the future

Many parent carers have questions about how proposed changes could affect their child.

* Every child is unique

Families want reassurance that individual needs will continue to be recognised and supported.

* Frustration with delays

Some parent carers are concerned about waiting times for assessments, decisions, and support.

* A wish to be heard

Parent carers want their knowledge, experiences, and views to play a meaningful role in decisions

about their child.

Key Message

Parent carers are experts in their children's lives, and their voices should be valued in shaping support and future services.

What will these changes mean for my child?

"I want to be involved in decisions that affect my child and family."

"I want my child's individual needs to continue to be recognised and understood.“

“ I am concerned about waiting times for assessments and support."

Understanding SEND Support

What Could This Mean for You and Your Child?

Every Child's Experience May Be Different

* Support may look different The type of support available may vary depending on your child's needs and educational setting.

* Changes may take time Any reforms are likely to be introduced gradually, and experiences may vary during this period.

* Your voice remains important Parent carers play a vital role in sharing their child's needs, experiences, and aspirations.

* Support is available Schools, local services, and parent carer organisations can help you understand changes and access support.

Key Message

The most important thing is that your child's individual needs remain at the centre of decisions about their education and support.

Moving Forward with Confidence

What Parent Carers Can Do

* Stay informed

Keep up to date with information about SEND reforms and what they may mean for your child.

* Ask questions

Seek clarification if you're unsure how changes could affect support or provision.

* Keep records

Save reports, assessments, correspondence and important documents.

* Seek support

Connect with schools, local SEND services, SEND Charities, for advice and guidance.

Key Message

You know your child best. Your knowledge, experience and involvement remain important in helping secure the right support for your child.

Questions You May Want to Ask

Staying informed and involved

How could these changes affect my child?

* What support is available now, and will that change in future?

* How will decisions be made about my child's support?

* Where can I go for advice, information, or additional support?

Helpful Tips

1. Ask for information in writing where possible

2. Keep records of meetings and correspondence

3. Don't be afraid to ask for clarification if something is unclear

4. Seek support from trusted SEND organisations and parent carer groups

Key Message

There are no silly questions. Understanding your child's support and knowing where to find information can help you feel more confident during times of change.

Things to Keep in Mind

During Times of Change

1. Take your time to process information

Changes can feel overwhelming, so focus on the information that is most relevant to your child.

2. Use trusted sources

Look for updates from schools, local authorities, parent carer forums, and recognised SEND

organisations.

3. Ask for clarification

If something is unclear, don't be afraid to ask questions or request information in a different format.

4. Remember you are not alone

Many families are navigating similar questions and concerns, and support is available.

Key Message

It's okay not to have all the answers straight away. Staying informed, asking questions, and seeking support can help you feel more confident about future changes.

Reflection Activity

Thinking About Your Child's Support

Scenario

Imagine that changes to SEND support are introduced in your local area. What questions or

concerns would you have about how these changes might affect your child?

Discussion Points

1. What would you want to know first?

2. What information would help you feel more confident?

3. Who could you turn to for advice or support?

4. How would you make sure your child's needs and views are heard?

Key Message

Taking time to ask questions, gather information, and seek support can help you feel more

prepared and confident when navigating change.

Key Takeaways

Remember

1. Stay informed

Keep up to date with reliable information about SEND reforms and local developments.

2. Your voice matters

Parent carers play a vital role in sharing their child's needs, strengths, and aspirations.

3. Ask questions

Seek clarification whenever you need it and make use of available support.

4. Every child is unique

Support should be guided by the individual needs of each child or young person.

Key Message

While changes may happen over time, the focus should remain on helping children and young

people with SEND access the support they need to thrive.

Thank you for reading.

We hope this information has helped you better understand the proposed SEND reforms and what they may mean for your child and family.

At the time of publication, no final SEND reform legislation has been implemented

Information accurate as of 9th July 2026