(UK) Wolverhampton: $17M govt grant for SPED debt; reforms necessary
The Government has given a vote of confidence to plans for services for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in Wolverhampton.
Wolverhampton SEND Partnership's Reform Plan has been approved by the Department for Education, recognising the strength of work taking place in the city to improve outcomes for children, young people and their families.
Its approval confirms that the partnership’s approach is aligned with the Government's national ambitions for supporting children and young people with additional needs. It also unlocks funding which will repay 90% of the City of Wolverhampton Council's overspend in this area up to the end of 2025/26.
Local partnerships across England were required to submit plans to the Government earlier this year setting out how they would deliver the reforms outlined in the Schools White Paper in February.
Wolverhampton's plan has now been approved, which also means the council is eligible to receive a High Needs Stability Grant worth approximately £12.72 million [$17M]. The Government has indicated that future financial assistance will take account of progress in delivering the reforms.
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “This is a big vote of confidence in the progress we are making to transform SEND services in Wolverhampton, and reflects the hard work and commitment of staff, schools, health partners, parents and carers, and children and young people over the last few years.
"We are committed to creating an inclusive and sustainable system where children and young people with SEND receive the right support, at the right time. We welcome the Government's recognition of the strengths in our plan and are focused on turning those commitments into lasting change. . . .
"We are in a strong position, but we know there is more to do. Demand for SEND support is continuing to rise both locally and nationally, and as a partnership we will continue working with children, young people, families and carers to build a SEND system that is inclusive, responsive and sustainable."
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