Ministers are under growing pressure to safeguard education plans for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Campaigners warn that removing these key protections could leave thousands of vulnerable children without access to essential support.
The Importance of EHCPs
Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) are legally binding documents that ensure children with SEND receive tailored support from local authorities. Advocates describe them as “precious legal protections,” cautioning that scrapping them could deny many children the education they deserve.
In a letter to The Guardian, campaigners, including charity leaders, academics, and prominent figures such as actor Sally Phillips and broadcaster Chris Packham, argued that without EHCPs, mainstream schools might fail to provide necessary provisions, leaving children at risk of exclusion.
Government Response
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson acknowledged the system’s challenges, calling it a “complex and sensitive area.” While she stopped short of ruling out changes to EHCPs, she pledged to strengthen support for children with SEND, emphasising that she had consulted parents, disability rights groups, and MPs.
However, Shadow Education Minister Neil O’Brien accused the government of “broken promises and U-turns,” citing failures to deliver on teacher recruitment and tax pledges. He argued that ministers had “no credibility left” on education policy.
Growing Demand for EHCPs
Recent Department for Education figures reveal a sharp rise in EHCPs, with 638,745 active plans in January 2025, a 10.8% increase from the previous year. Requests for assessments also surged by 11.8% in 2023, highlighting the growing need for SEND support.
Despite speculation about reforms, the government insists there are “no plans to abolish SEND tribunals” or withdraw funding. A spokesperson stated it would be “totally inaccurate” to suggest children would lose support.
The Path Forward
Helen Hayes, chair of the education committee, urged ministers to rebuild trust with parents, many of whom feel let down by the current system. She also warned against repeating the chaotic welfare reforms that recently triggered a Labour backbench rebellion.
With full details of proposed changes expected in October, campaigners and families await clarity. For now, the message is clear: any reforms must protect, not weaken, the rights of children with SEND.
