Conservative school cuts are failing pupils with SEND

A report by Newsnight this week, revealed that more than 1,500 pupils with special educational needs or a disability (SEND) across 46 councils do not have a school place.

Liberal Democrat Education spokesperson Layla Moran MP responded by saying: "SEND pupils are falling through the gaps of a fragmented, underfunded school system. Brutal Conservative cuts to schools and the spiralling demand for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) mean that too many children with the most complex needs are not getting the tailored support they are entitled to.

"Meanwhile, cash-strapped councils must ensure every child has a school place but are powerless to make it happen. They can't sponsor new schools or control academies' admissions policies.

"The Liberal Democrats demand better for our children's futures. We would give schools an emergency cash injection worth thousands of pounds for every child on an EHCP and give the power to plan school places back to elected local councils."

Emily Coy, the Liberal Democrats parliamentary spokesperson in Chesterfield believes 'It is disgraceful that children with special educational needs and disabilities are being denied an education because of Conservative cuts. Only recently the Derbyshire Times reported how Brampton Primary School is struggling with this very issue and having to choose whether to fund special needs children or repair school buildings."

"No head teacher should have to make these choices and no child should be without an education. As Liberal Democrats we demand better for children because spending on schools isn't simply necessary, it's our moral duty.'