The key measures proposed are:
• Replacing SEN statements and Learning Difficulty Assessments (for 16- to 25-year-olds) with a single, simpler 0-25 assessment process and Education, Health and Care Plan from 2014
• Providing statutory protections comparable to those currently associated with a statement of SEN to up to 25 in further education – instead of it being cut off at 16
• Requiring local authorities to publish a local offer showing the support available to disabled children and young people and those with SEN, and their families
• Giving parents or young people with Education, Health and Care Plans the right to a personal budget for their support
• Introducing compulsory mediation for disputes and trialling giving children the right to appeal if they are unhappy with their support.
Next week, the Department for Education is expected to release a “Next steps” document setting out the firm timetable for reform.
