EHCPs are designed to provide additional support for children in school. However, starting the process can often be challenging and adversarial, with delays causing significant stress for families. In some unfortunate cases, parents even choose to remove their children from school.
Over the past decade, the number of EHCPs in Oxfordshire has surged from 3,000 to nearly 7,000, mirroring a national increase where the number of pupils with an EHCP has risen by 140 percent.
In Westminster, Olly Glover, the MP for Didcot and Wantage, highlighted that Oxfordshire’s high needs block deficit is expected to hit £77.1 million. This represents a portion of the national deficit of approximately £4 billion in England.
The Liberal Democrat MP also pointed out a ‘postcode lottery’ that affects the services available to schools and families. He referenced St Blaise Primary School in Milton, located within the Didcot and Wantage constituency.
Mr. Glover stated, “I join my colleagues in calling on the government to address the crisis in SEND funding by providing local authorities with the extra resources they require; this is a national crisis. Immediate action is essential as too many children, families, and schools struggle to access the necessary support, which should not be contingent on their location.
“While I welcome discussions on reforms, specific details are still lacking. These reforms need to be comprehensive, sustainable, long-lasting, and fully funded, including the provision of therapists, psychologists, and other essential services, ensuring all our children can thrive.”
Local businesses and community groups have a vital role to play in supporting families and educational institutions. For those interested in further engaging with the community, consider creating a free business profile or submitting local events to enhance the support network within Wantage.
To explore local businesses and support services, browse through the business directory for more options.
