SEND policies and legislation

Reforms for children with SEN and disabilities come into effect
The new Children and Families Act will offer simpler, improved and consistent help for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Visit website.

SEND: guide for parents and carers
A guide on the support system for children and young people with special educational needs and disability (SEND). Visit website.

Safeguarding disabled children
Departmental advice setting out how agencies and professionals should work together to safeguard the welfare of disabled children. Visit website.

Short breaks for disabled children
Statutory guidance about providing short breaks for disabled children to improve their welfare and quality of life. Visit website.

Education for children with health needs who cannot attend school
Statutory guidance for local authorities and departmental advice for others ensuring children with health needs receive education. Visit website.

Help for children with a long-term illness or disability
Illness and your child's education, your rights and support if you have a disabled child. Visit website.

Disabled Children and the Equality Act 2010
What Early Years providers need to know and do, including responsibilities to disabled children under the Children and Families Act 2014

Send Reforms for Post-16 support

After your child turns 16, they will have the right to make their own decisions about their future. You can continue to support them in making decisions, or act on their behalf, as long as they are happy for you to do so. If your child needs support to express their view, we will arrange for them to have an advocate.

The video below has been produced by the Council for Disabled Children to explain exactly what the SEND reforms mean for young people 16 and over.