Timpson announces funding for SEND reform

A package to support embedding the reforms made to the system of support for children with special educational needs has been announced by Minister for Vulnerable Children and Families, Edward Timpson.

Timpson met with members of the National Network of Parent Carer Forums (NNPCF) at the Department for Education on 9 January, where he confirmed funding from April 2017 of nearly £60 million.

The funding will help embed the reforms made to the system of support for SEND and continue the support for the groups who have been instrumental in bringing about the progress seen to date.

The funding announced includes:

• £15 million for the Independent Supporters programme in 2017 to 2018, run by the Council for Disabled Children, this has been a real driver of change for families navigating the SEND system and improving the experience for them
• £2.3 million for Parent Carer Forums in 2017 to 2018, who bring parents together and provide a voice to influence local decision-making
• £1.8 million to Contact a Family, to support individual Parent Carer Forums and their National Network, and to run a national helpline for families

The package also includes funding for councils worth £40 million, which the minister announced shortly before Christmas. This is an increase of £4.2 million from last year (2016 to 2017).