In recent weeks, reports have highlighted the growing crisis in the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system across England. Local councils are struggling to manage the rising costs of SEND services, particularly school transport, which now consumes twice the funding allocated for road maintenance in many areas. With the system at breaking point and new government reforms on the horizon, parents are more anxious than ever about securing the right support for their children.
A System on the Brink
The number of children requiring SEND transport has surged by 25% since 2019, leading to a financial strain that could see council deficits reach £5 billion by next year. In response, the government is preparing major reforms that could limit parental rights to appeal Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) decisions and reduce the powers of SEND tribunals. Many fear this will leave families with fewer options and less legal protection when fighting for their child’s education.
The Human Cost
Beyond the financial figures, this crisis is affecting real families every day. Parents who are already exhausted by the battles they face to secure EHCPs, school placements, and the right support now fear even greater obstacles. Some have had to leave jobs to home-school their children due to inadequate provision, adding to financial stress and mental health pressures.
How AskEllie Can Help
With the future of SEND services in flux, access to clear, immediate, and legally sound advice is more crucial than ever. This is where AskEllie steps in.
✅ Instant Guidance – Parents can get clear answers on SEND law, EHCPs, and appeals, without having to sift through confusing government documents.
✅ Drafting Support – Ellie can help parents create professional, legally structured responses to schools, councils, and tribunals.
✅ Simplified Legal Information – Ellie breaks down complex policies and legal jargon into easy-to-understand advice.
✅ 24/7 Access – No waiting lists, no unanswered emails—Ellie is always available when parents need her.
✅ New & Improved Version (V2) – Now available on Telegram, offering even faster responses and deeper integration with key legal sources.
As the government prepares to make changes that could limit SEND support, parents need to be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for their children effectively. AskEllie is designed to empower families with the tools they need to navigate an increasingly challenging system.
Be Prepared. Stay Informed. Get Support.
The months ahead could bring significant challenges, but parents don’t have to face them alone. AskEllie is here to help.
💻 Try Ellie on our website: www.askellie.co.uk
📱 Get instant support on Telegram (Beta V2): https://t.me/AskEllieBot
If you’re a parent navigating the SEND system, now is the time to take action. Join the thousands of families using AskEllie to fight for their children’s education and future.
Leave a Reply