The Department for Education (DfE) has launched a new consultation on mainstream school funding for SEND, linked to the SEND Reform consultations, focusing on “Upfront funding for mainstream schools: creating a ‘local SEND inclusion formula'”.
This consultation explores how local authorities can provide upfront additional Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) funding to mainstream schools, asking your views on whether mainstream schools should get more of their SEND funding upfront rather than having to apply for it later.
The DfE created a “What parents and carers of children and young people need to know” document and Special Needs Jungle wrote an explainer article if you want to learn more about this consultation before responding. The government also created guidance intended to support local authorities to understand the application process that is going to be part of the first phase of the proposed new approach in the 2027 to 2028 financial year. You can read the guidance here: Apply to provide upfront SEND funding to mainstream schools.
If you want to learn more about how the current funding system works, you can download Kids charity’s “SEN Funding Guide” or SENDIASS Manchester’s factsheet for more info.
The consultation will close on the 18th of September 2026.
Other Opportunities to Get Involved
- The Department for Education (DfE) will be hosting some DfE live conversations about the “SEND Reform: education other than at school – proposals and consultation” – you can register for them here: DfE EOTAS ONLINE EVENTS
- Please also consider responding to the EOTAS consultation directly.
- The Disabled Children’s Partnership (DCP) invites parents, carers and young people to take part in their short, 3-question survey to ensure that their partnership’s response reflects family’s lived experiences. Answer the DCP Survey
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