Published on Tuesday 24 February 2026
BCP Council has long campaigned for meaningful change to the SEND system, and we are carefully reviewing the proposals to understand what they could mean for the children and families we support, our services and colleagues.
Responding to the Government’s announcement, Councillor Richard Burton, BCP Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Education and Skills, said:
“For years BCP Council has been calling on government for a national overhaul of a SEND system that too often fails children and families and places unsustainable financial pressure on councils. We recognise the government inherited this problem and we are pleased to see them taking steps to address it.
“However, meaningful reform depends on the detail and on ensuring that the right level of long-term funding is in place. Families across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole deserve clarity and confidence in how these proposals will work in practice, and we will take the time needed to fully understand the implications.
“We will scrutinise these proposals closely and make sure we use every method possible including working with our local MPs on next steps.”
“Ultimately, we all want a system which is inclusive, financially sustainable and genuinely works for every child, young person and family and this remains our priority.”