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“It is vitally important that inclusion is at the heart of reforming the SEND system, so it is good that government is investing in creating specialist places in mainstream schools, so children are able to attend their local school with their friends in their local area."

“These findings highlight that reform of the SEND system is needed urgently and is unavoidable."

“We are pleased the Government has announced this plan as it is vital there is a national strategy for children and young people.

New feedback from councils, published in a new report today, shows that free holiday provision for low-income families improves children’s health and wellbeing and boosts future school attendance.

“Child poverty not only limits children’s life chances and wellbeing but also imposes significant long-term costs on our economy and society."

“While it is positive government has committed to absorbing the costs of SEND spending from 2028/29 – and we look forward to clarity on how this will be funded – this does not address existing deficits, which are pushing many councils to the financial brink."

An independent report on rising needs in children under five commissioned by the Local Government Association has found councils and early years providers are consistently seeing an increase in volume and complexity of need.

Latest figures released today show there are 81,770 children in the care of councils.

“Rising high needs deficits are pushing councils to the brink, and these findings reinforce the urgent need for reform of the SEND system, which is failing too many children and families.

“We are pleased the review has acknowledged the curriculum needs to benefit all pupils, including those with SEND. Improving mainstream inclusion is vital in reforming the SEND system.