SEND Reforms

 

Please be assured that despite the ongoing publicity around future SEND reforms, the White Paper, which was published on 23.02.26, is a document which sets out possible changes to legislation.

A 12 week consultation and discussion will take place before a Bill is formally presented to Parliament and any future changes to the SEND system agreed.

The consultation closes at 11:59pm on 18 May 2026.

Please also be aware that any changes that are eventually agreed will take a number of years to implement and their commencement will be widely publicised.

In the meantime and for the foreseeable future, the current SEND legal framework remains in place.

Please find a link to the White Paper here:

Every child achieving and thriving - GOV.UK

 

How can a parent/ carer find out more and give feedback on the proposals?

As a Havering SEND parent/carer there are 5 simple ways you can get involved and make sure your voice is heard. 

Your experiences and opinions are really important. By taking part you can help improve support for children with SEND in our community.

 

Here are the 5 ways you can get involved:

1. Attend a face-to-face session on 27th April 2026 run by Havering SEND Family Voice. 

Link:  The Department for Education Schools White Paper - In-Person Information and Listening Session for SEND Families | Havering Directory

2. Attend one of the online webinars run by the National Network of Parent/carer Forums (NNPCF) London Region.

3. Complete a National Network of Parent/carer Forums (NNPCF) online survey.  Your responses will inform the NNPCF London Region response to the DfE consultation. 

4. Attend one of the online engagement events organised by the Council for Disabled Children (CDC).

5. Complete the consultation directly. If you would like give your views on the White Paper you can respond to the consultation by 11:59pm on 18 May 2026 via this link:

SEND reform: putting children and young people first - Department for Education - Citizen Space

 

For more information on the 5 ways you can get involved including times, dates and booking links please visit the Havering directory website via this link:

 The Department for Education Schools White Paper | Havering Directory