Last week, we held our second parent carer engagement session on SEND reforms in partnership with Bromley Parent Carer Forum.
The session provided an overview of the government’s Every Child Achieving and Thriving Schools White Paper, the SEND Reform: Putting Children and Young People First consultation, and Bromley’s developing SEND Reform Plan.
We know that some families are concerned about what these proposals could mean for children and young people with SEND. We also recognise that many families continue to face challenges accessing the coordinated help and support they need.
Did you know?
While these reforms are being developed, there are no changes to current SEND legislation. Children and young people with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) will continue to receive the support set out in their plan.
Before any changes to SEND law can be introduced, there are several stages the government must complete. Because of this, changes to legislation are not expected before 2029.
Did you know?
Local authorities, health services and education providers will have three years to prepare for any future reforms.
In the meantime, improvements are already being made, including:
- Training more Educational Psychologists
- Creating new specialist school placements
- Expanding SEND training and support for education staff
Did you know?
All local authorities, including Bromley, were required to prepare and submit a SEND Reform Plan to the Department for Education by 19 June 2026.
The Bromley SEND Reform Plan sets out our vision for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, our strategic priorities, and how we aim to deliver and prepare for potential future reforms in Bromley.
To develop the plan, we established a multi-agency reform group that included parent carer representatives. We also worked closely with local partners to ensure co-production was at the heart of the process.
What happens next?
The Bromley SEND Partnership is committed to strengthening co-production, communication and shared accountability to help build confidence in the local SEND system.
Bromley Parent Carer Forum and Your Voice Health and Social Care will continue to represent parent carers on the SEND Reform Group.
As work progresses, we will continue to keep families updated through:
- The Bromley SEND Local Offer website
- The Bromley SEND Local Offer Facebook page
- The Bromley SEND Local Offer Instagram account
These channels will provide updates on progress, opportunities to get involved, and examples of how the voices of children, young people and families continue to shape SEND reform in Bromley.
Get involved
If you would like to find out more or get involved, please contact Bromley Parent Carer Forum, Your Voice Health and Social Care, or email SENDMatters@bromley.gov.uk.
