The number of children receiving support for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in England has surged to a new record high, with a 12.5% increase in Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) between January 2025 and January 2026, according to government figures. This is the highest year-on-year rise since EHCPs were introduced over a decade ago, pushing the total number of plans above 700,000.
Government Response and Investment
A spokesperson for the Department for Education (DfE) said the figures “show the scale of the challenge we inherited” and announced a £4bn investment to bring specialist support into mainstream schools. “We’re building a system where every school can support every child to thrive, while ensuring those with the greatest needs get the specialist help they need,” they stated.
EHCP Issuance and Timeliness
Over 110,000 new EHCPs were issued during the 2025 calendar year. However, the proportion of plans issued within the statutory 20-week timeframe has decreased, with less than half now completed on time. The number of children and young people with EHCPs in mainstream schools has increased by over 15% compared to the previous year, with nearly half of all EHCP holders now attending mainstream schools.
Family Experiences
Karen Quinn, whose 11-year-old son Adam is autistic and has ADHD and dyslexia, is currently navigating the EHCP process. Adam has been suspended several times and struggles with writing and emotional regulation. After submitting paperwork in February, the council agreed to assess Adam in May, later than expected. Quinn expressed concern that delays would impact his transition to secondary school in September. “I just want him to get the help that he needs to be the best that he can be,” she said.
Local Authority Perspective
Helyn Clack, cabinet member for children, families and lifelong learning at Surrey County Council, said: “While we cannot comment on the circumstances of individual children, EHCP assessments are governed by national legislation and are considered on a case-by-case basis. We would encourage any family with concerns to contact us directly so we can provide clear advice and ensure the appropriate support is considered.”
Government Reform Plans
Under the government’s SEND reform plans released in spring, fewer children will qualify for EHCPs from 2030. Instead, all children with SEND—currently over 1.8 million—will receive Individual Support Plans (ISPs), with EHCPs reserved for those with the most complex needs. Families and campaigners have raised concerns that this could “strip away” legal rights, but the government insists this is not the case. The consultation on the reforms closed in May.
Inclusion Bases in Mainstream Schools
New guidance on creating inclusion bases in mainstream schools has been released. These are dedicated spaces providing targeted teaching and specialist support, aiming to end inconsistent provision where children feel excluded. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson told the Today programme that every young person should be able to attend their local school “with their friends” and receive a “brilliant education.” She acknowledged that high-quality SEND provision was a “postcode lottery” but said reforms would address that.
Charity Concerns
Jolanta Lasota, chief executive of Ambitious About Autism, said the school environment can “make or break” a young person’s ability to attend, learn and achieve. However, she noted that children they spoke to were “uncertain” about whether inclusion bases would help them feel supported or become another place where they are “separated, excluded and disengaged.”
