(UK) Cornwall is "one of worst counties" for special plans

Dec 9, 2024, Cornwall Live: The ever-growing challenges of being a SEND child or parent in Cornwall 

SW England

. . .This year, Cornwall was also found to be one of the worst counties for issuing special education EHCP care plans on time. Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs) are a cornerstone of SEND support. These plans outline a child's specific needs and detail the provision required to meet those needs. However, securing an EHCP can be a lengthy and challenging process for many families.

And while Cornwall Council says it has been working on improvements, challenges remain. Funding constraints, staffing shortages, and a lack of specialist training are said to hinder progress across the UK. This has led to parents and advocacy groups calling for increased investment and better coordination between health, education and social services.

Local charity Cornwall Parent Carer Council (CPCC) has been instrumental in bridging the gap. "We act as a voice for families, ensuring their concerns are heard at both local and national levels," explains CPCC chair Sarah Jenkins. . . .

Lisa Vosper, who has a son with non-verbal autism who has been excluded from his primary school since January said she felt she was "chasing for help all the time," the BBC reports.

Adrian Brown, from Launceston, said: "Every step is a battle" after years of trying to get support for his daughter Megan, 16, who has a diagnosis of autism. . . .