Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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The East Riding of Yorkshire receives the lowest level of funding for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), raising concerns about equitable distribution of resources.
Charlie Dewhirst noted that his area, the East Riding of Yorkshire, has the lowest level of funding for SEND, expressing hope that the current review will address this disparity. He further highlighted parents' dread during school holidays due to limited and expensive provision for out-of-school activities for children with SEND.
Bridget Phillipson acknowledged the hon. Gentleman's concern and stated that she will look carefully at funding issues and broader support as part of wider reform. She noted that parents have the right to request wraparound holiday childcare places, and the relevant guidance was updated this year to ensure all children receive necessary support.
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Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The National Audit Office reported no consistent improvement in outcomes for children with SEND from 2019 onwards. Josh Fenton-Glynn highlighted the struggle faced by parents and teachers at Highbury School, representing a broader systemic issue.
Josh Fenton-Glynn pointed out that the previous government left SEND education in crisis, referencing NAO findings of no consistent improvement since 2019. He shared his firsthand experience with struggling families and teachers at Highbury School in Calder Valley, stressing the need for substantial reform.
Bridget Phillipson congratulated Josh Fenton-Glynn on his marathon efforts and agreed that her government inherited a problematic system. She assured that their aim is to listen to parents, children, stakeholders, and schools to ensure better outcomes through comprehensive reform.
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Q3
Partial Answer
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Children in the East Riding of Yorkshire receive significantly less funding than those in Camden, despite similar needs. Graham Stuart emphasized the need for fair funding across all regions.
Graham Stuart raised concerns about the disparity in funding, noting that each child with special educational needs in the East Riding receives £968 compared to £3,564 in Camden, questioning the fairness of current allocations and requesting a commitment to equitable funding through the review process.
Bridget Phillipson agreed on the importance of equitable funding but noted that current allocations were based on existing formulas. She committed to examining all matters as part of their wider reform, emphasizing responsibility and focus on better outcomes.
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Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The crisis in the SEND system causes distress to families, professionals, and educators. Helen Hayes criticized certain political figures for blaming GPs and parents for increased diagnoses.
Helen Hayes highlighted that blaming parents and GPs for an increase in SEND diagnoses is both inaccurate and insulting, urging the Secretary of State to focus on listening to parents and professionals rather than denigrating them.
Bridget Phillipson agreed that blaming parents and GPs is irresponsible, highlighting the distress caused by such comments. She praised Helen Hayes's committee work on SEND inquiries and reaffirmed her government's focus on better outcomes through collaboration with stakeholders.
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