Sept 1, 2020, BBC News: 'Neglected' Bristol special schools set for funding boost https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-bristol-53988437
SW England Plans to spend almost £30m [$40M U.S.] on improving "neglected" special schools in Bristol have been approved by council bosses. The proposals will see current schools upgraded and more places made available for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Bristol City Council backed plans to spend £28.7m on the improvements - subject to a consultation in the autumn - at a cabinet meeting earlier. Currently, 190 children who need places cannot be accommodated. The council was accused in November of "failing to plan" for SEND pupils and Ofsted said the city's performance in this area was not fit for purpose. In 2018, the council was forced to restore £5m [$6.7M] to its SEND budget after it lost a High Court case against parents who challenged its decision to cut the funding…. The plans include the creation of residential accommodation to support people of school-leaving age who need additional support with living. Known as Project Rainbow, the independent living centre would provide an additional 14 beds for young adults at the Ashley Down Campus. Elmfield School for Deaf Children and Claremont Special School would also undergo "significant redevelopment" and improved provision made for SEND pupils at mainstream schools.
