Labour Send changes at risk as parents rush to secure support, say experts

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Published: 2026-10-07T21:10:36.303Z • Permanent link

Labour's flagship changes to special education in England, announced last year, are facing a critical test of time. The overhaul, which aims to provide more personalized support for children with special educational needs (SEN), has been backed by education secretary Levelling, who hailed it as a "game-changer". However, new research from thinktank The Education Foundation has raised serious doubts about the scheme's viability. According to the report, many parents are rushing to secure support for their children, fearing that the changes will be rolled back if the government loses an election.

Experts at The Education Foundation warn that the "use it before you lose it" dynamic is at play, with Labour's opponents threatening to reverse the changes if they come to power. The report highlights the vulnerability of the SEN system, which is heavily reliant on government funding and policy. With the election looming, the thinktank fears that the government will be forced to abandon its plans, leaving thousands of families in limbo. Meanwhile, Labour's opponents, including the Conservative Party, have been quick to capitalize on the uncertainty, accusing the government of being reckless and irresponsible.

The government's handling of the SEN system has been under intense scrutiny in recent months. Education secretary Levelling has faced criticism for his handling of the crisis, with some accusing him of being out of touch with the needs of families. The government's plans to increase funding for SEN services have been met with skepticism by many experts, who argue that they do not go far enough to address the crisis. As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: the future of special education in England hangs in the balance.

The potential collapse of Labour's SEN reforms has far-reaching implications for families and researchers alike. For many parents, the changes represent a lifeline, providing them with the support they need to help their children thrive. However, if the reforms are rolled back, it could have devastating consequences for families who have already invested time and money into the system. Research communities will also be affected, as the collapse of the reforms could lead to a loss of funding and resources for SEN services.

Companies such as Action for Children and the National Autistic Society will be watching the situation closely, as their services rely heavily on government funding. The collapse of the reforms could lead to a loss of funding, forcing these organizations to reduce services or even close their doors. Markets will also be impacted, as investors become increasingly risk-averse in the face of uncertainty. The collapse of the reforms could lead to a decline in the value of companies that rely on government funding, causing widespread disruption to the sector.

The collapse of Labour's SEN reforms is just the latest example of the challenges facing the education sector in England. The government's handling of the crisis has been shaped by a complex interplay of factors, including the legacy of austerity, the impact of Brexit, and the ongoing debate about the role of government in education. Historically, the SEN system has been vulnerable to funding cuts and policy changes, and this latest development is no exception.