Schools White Paper & SEND Reform

The Government’s Schools White Paper was published on 23rd February 2026, and it includes proposals to reform the SEND system in England.

We understand that changes to SEND can feel unsettling. We want to share clear information and, most importantly, reassurance.

What hasn’t changed

The publication of a White Paper does not change current SEND law.

Your child’s legal rights to support remain in place.

What does this mean?

A White Paper sets out the Government’s proposals for possible future changes. It is not new law.

Now that it has been published:

• There will be a 12-week consultation period.

• Families, charities and professionals can share their views.

• Only after consultation would any proposals move into draft legislation.

• Any draft legislation would then need to go through Parliament.

Throughout this entire process, existing SEND law continues to apply.

If you are told that your child’s support has changed because of the White Paper, this is not correct.

Debbie, along with other EY SEND Specialist Providers, will be meeting in London in March to discuss our response to the White Paper ensuring that we continue to give our children and families a voice where it matters. Please contact Debbie if you would like to share any views, comments or concerns.

Contact have a really helpful page on their website regarding the White Paper: https://contact.org.uk/.../the-schools-white-paper.../