The Send system is in crisis – but what should change look like? | Letters

Guardian readers have responded to the UK government's education white paper outlining changes to the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (Send) system, which is currently facing significant crises across England. The white paper, published recently, proposes substantial reforms to provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities, prompting varied responses from educators, parents, and advocacy groups. Among the contributors is a Send coordinator at a mainstream primary school who also serves as a governor at a special school and has two children with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) attending special schools. This individual has expressed positive views toward the proposed reforms, highlighting the urgent need for systemic improvements in a system struggling with increasing demand, funding shortages, and bureaucratic delays. The Send system in England has been under increasing pressure with rising numbers of children requiring support, lengthy assessment processes, and inconsistent provision across different regions, creating a crisis that demands comprehensive reform to ensure vulnerable children receive the education and support they need.