Torbay schools must receive fair slice of new SEND funding, says MP

Local Liberal Democrat MP Steve Darling is urging the Government to allocate Torbay schools the funding they so desperately need following the announcement of extra funding to support pupils with special needs.

Steve has welcomed the Education Secretary’s latest announcement of extra funding for mainstream schools to improve provision for SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) students. The plan aims to create more SEND places in mainstream schools, relieving special schools unable to cope with overwhelming demand. 

But with plans for how the £740 million will be allocated yet to be published, Liberal Democrat MP Steve is calling on the Government to make sure Torbay schools receive a fair slice of the new funding. 

Years of neglect under the previous Conservative Government have left too many families across Torbay struggling desperately to get their children the support they need. Cash-strapped schools are doing their best to provide complex SEND support, but too many vulnerable children in Torbay are being failed.

Steve has called today on the Education Secretary to make sure local schools are allocated a fair slice of the new funding, and advocated for a rescue plan for SEND provision in Torbay and across the country

Steve, said:

“Every day I hear from more and more Torbay families who are desperate to see change in a SEND system that is failing our children.

“Making sure children with special needs and disabilities can access the schools they need in their community is crucial. Our schools must see a fair slice of the new SEND funding package, so that students in Torbay can all receive the education they deserve in a setting that supports them.

“But families and schools are crying out for help, and while the Education Secretary’s plan will alleviate pressure, it won’t fix the crisis at its root. 

“That’s why the Liberal Democrats are calling for a National Body for SEND - making sure that young people with the highest needs can receive the education they need."