Following the government's publication of the schools white paper on 23 February, the council has reaffirmed that improving and progressing SEND services for all children, young people and their families is of utmost importance.
Cllr Roy Bailey, cabinet member for children and young people, said:
“We welcome the government’s announcement of the additional funding for special education needs and disabilities (SEND) as part of the schools white paper. The provision of SEND services is a priority for Bracknell Forest Council and we are constantly working to improve the services available for our children, young people and their parent carers. However, like most local authorities, the provision of SEND services is a challenge and requires additional funding.”
Grainne Siggins, executive director for people, said:
“The provision of SEND services is of utmost importance for the council and we have been working with parent carers and our partners to make progress in the level of service we provide to children and young people.
“As part of our ongoing improvement programme we have seen real progress, including:
- education, health and care plans (EHCPs) are now being issued on time
- a new social emotional and mental health (SEMH) school building is being created, with a temporary site opened for 10 children in September 2025
- plans for a new autism school for 100 children in Crowthorne are now with the Department for Education
- opening two secondary specialist resource provisions (SRP) so up to 50 children can have their needs met within their local schools
- improvements to wait times for mental health services, as well as the improved support for children awaiting both mental health and neurodiversity assessments
- redesigned and recommissioned East Berkshire children’s therapy service to address wait times for certain therapy services
“With our partners, we will now work to make sure we are prepared and ready to deliver on the proposals set out in the white paper. This will build on our improvements so far to make sure all children with SEND can achieve the best possible outcomes.”
