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The SEND Reforms

The schools white paper, Every Child Achieving and Thriving, was published on 23 February 2026. The white paper included major reforms to the system of support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in England.

Alongside the white paper, a consultation on the SEND proposals, SEND reform: putting children and young people first, was also published. The consultation is open until 18 May 2026.

Understanding the SEND Reforms

The Government has been preparing major reforms to the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system in England.

The SEND reforms are part of a wider Schools White Paper (Every Child Achieving and Thriving), setting out the Government’s future for laws affecting education and the SEND system.

At this stage, the law has not changed. Legal duties under the Children and Families Act 2014 will stay in force, and families keep the same rights to assessments, EHCPs, and appeals.

The Consultation Period

There is a 12-week consultation period, giving families, professionals, and organisations the chance to respond to the proposals.

During this period:

• Anyone can send their views, concerns, or ideas.

• Responses can lead to the White Paper being changed before it is presented to Parliament.

Could the White Paper change?

Yes. The White Paper is not final. It is open to change based on:

• Public consultation responses

• Feedback from listening sessions with parents, professionals, and expert groups

• Parliamentary debate and amendment processes

This means that the proposals presented in the White Paper could be changed before any legislation is prepared or introduced.

In Summary

• The SEND reforms are proposed changes outlined in a Schools White Paper.

• The law has not changed; current SEND rights and legal duties remain fully in place.

• The White Paper will be subject to a 12-week consultation, during which changes can and likely will be made.

• Only after consultation and parliamentary scrutiny could any new legislation come into force. This process could take a few years.

CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE THE CONSULTATION

This closes on the 18th May 2026

Families feedback on this white paper is important. By sharing experiences and views, everyone can play an essential role in shaping future decisions.

Accessibility information

The Department for Education would like to ensure that everyone can access and engage with the schools white paper.

Available formats: