BASW speaks to MPs in SEND inquiry

BASW calls for relationship based, co-production at ministerial meeting discussing recent reforms to Special Educational Needs and Disabilities

Last week the Education Select Committee met to discuss the ongoing Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) inquiry (2018), set up to review reforms made in 2014 to the SEND system.

Through BASW’s parliamentary work, supported by BASW networks, we were represented on the panel by member Andrew Reece.

As Head of Integrated Learning Disability Services in Camden, London, Andrew spoke from experience as emphasised the need for a relationship centred approach. He also broached the idea of “co-production through an all age disability board of senior leaders” similar to Safeguarding Partnership Boards.

You can listen to the meeting, and BASW’s representation through Andrew on Parliament TV.

BASW thanks all members for their contributions. 

Background

In 2014, the Government introduced wide-reaching changes to the SEND system, with the intention of offering simpler, improved and consistent help for children and young people with SEND.

The Government claimed these changes would give families greater choice in decisions.

The Committee’s new inquiry is intended to review the success of these reforms, how they have been implemented, and what impact they are having in meeting the challenges faced by children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.