WARRINGTON North MP Charlotte Nichols is to hold roundtable talks on proposals to reform the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system in partnership with Warrington Wolves Foundation.
Following on from the Government’s announcement to reform the SEND system, Ms Nichols is inviting constituents to attend her roundtable to discuss this issue on:
Friday 8th May from 1.30 pm-3.30 pm in Warrington (location disclosed on sign-up)
If you would like to attend the roundtable, or just make your views on the issue known to Ms Nichols, then please fill in the following form:
charlottenicholsmp.com/survey/sendreforms2026
Views raised at the roundtable will be fed back to the Government.
You can also raise your views directly with the Government through their consultation by 18th May:
consult.education.gov.uk/send-strategy-division/send-reform-putting-children-and-young-people-firs/
A reminder of these SEND education reforms include:
– Allowing existing local schools to expand their SEND offering, keeping children closer to home and allowing mainstream public schools to provide more support for children up-front, without the battle for an EHCP.
– New Targeted and Targeted Plus layers of support will ensure children get the right help in mainstream settings. Every child receiving Targeted or Specialist support will have a digital Individual Support Plan (ISP).
– Families will be able to send their child to school with confidence, with Experts at Hand to provide more professional support like speech and language therapists for those with speech, language and communication needs.
Lee Mitchell, General Manager, Warrington Wolves Community Foundation says:“We welcome the opportunity to work alongside Charlotte Nichols MP to bring local voices into this important conversation around SEND reform. Every day, we see the difference that the right support can make in helping children and young people feel happier, healthier, and more connected to our town.
It’s vital that any changes to the system are shaped by the lived experiences of families, schools, and communities. By hosting this roundtable, we hope to ensure those voices are heard and that future provision better meets the needs of young people across Warrington.
At Warrington Wolves Community Foundation, we are committed to creating inclusive opportunities for all, and we look forward to contributing to a system that gives every child the chance to thrive.”
Ms Nichols added: “For too long, children and family have been held back by an education system that doesn’t work for them. I believe all children deserve the support they need to learn and prepare them for the future.
“The SEND system, designed a decade ago for a small number of children, is now at breaking point. That’s led to parents having to fight tooth and nail for entitlements on paper that don’t see them getting additional support – and children’s lives and chances have suffered as a result.
“I am pleased the Government is committed to doing something about this, but it is important that I hear from parents and teachers alike before considering legislation. Therefore, I encourage anyone concerned to attend my roundtable and complete the Government’s consultation.”
