As some of you will be aware, the Government has published the Schools White Paper today: “Every child achieving and thriving – GOV.UK”

As we wait for further details, we know there are many parents and carers who are feeling anxious. It is important to know that nothing is changing immediately about the support our children currently receive.

Government White Papers are proposals for future reforms. The White Paper has set out ideas and directions, but it is not a change to the law itself.

Any changes to Special Educational Needs support will take time, consultation, and further legislation before they could be implemented. This will take a long time. Now that the White Paper has been published, there will be a consultation that closes at 11:59pm on the 18th of May 2026. You can access the consultation here: “SEND reform: putting children and young people first – GOV.UK”

Families, individuals, charities and professionals can all respond and influence what happens next. After the consultation period, any proposed changes will be put forward as draft legislation. This legislation then needs to go through Parliament. Some proposals in a White Paper do not require new legislation and may instead be introduced through changes to policy or statutory guidance.

Until any changes to legislation are formally announced:

  • Your child’s EHC Plan remains in place
  • Current school-based SEND support continues
  • Legal duties on local authorities and schools remain the same
  • No existing provision can be removed because of the White Paper
  • If you are told that support has changed because of the White Paper, this is incorrect.

We understand that uncertainty can be worrying but, right now, this is a discussion and planning for the future – not instant change. We will share further information and opportunities to share your voice with you over the coming weeks and months.

For now, our children’s support stays exactly as it is and, whatever happens in the future, we are here to support you.