The motion, which was passed overwhelmingly by members, introduces a range of policies aimed at improving the inclusion of SEND students in mainstream schools by introducing mandatory training for all teachers and education professionals. John Milne highlighted the strain on council budgets, noting that they have been “stretched beyond their limits” due to years of neglect by the previous Conservative government.
The Liberal Democrats are also calling for the acceleration of state-funded special needs schools to rapidly increase capacity for children with SEND. 67 specialist schools are currently stuck in planning delays, holding up plans to boost capacity in state educational settings.
In Horsham, parents have expressed frustration over the difficulty of securing appropriate educational support for their children. With limited local SEND provision, families often face lengthy commutes to specialist schools or are forced to rely on expensive private providers whilst council budgets are stretched to their limit.
John Milne MP said: “I have met with a number of parents in Horsham who are exhausted by the constant fight to secure the right support for their children. It is unacceptable that families are left struggling while schools and councils are overwhelmed.”
“The Conservative Government neglected our education system and caused an absolute crisis in special needs provision, leaving council budgets stretched beyond their limits and failing children, parents, and teachers. Now we need to see real, urgent action from Labour.”
“Horsham families deserve far better, which is why I am supporting the Liberal Democrats’ bold plan to fix this SEND crisis. I am determined to be a strong advocate for our local families in Parliament to make sure every child has access to the education and support they need.”