SEND reform: The view from local government on impact and implementation

This report is a brand-new analysis of the government's SEND reform proposals, first unveiled in March 2026. The report, produced by Isos Partnership for the County Councils Network and the Local Government Association, draws on survey and workshop feedback from local authorities. It concludes that the reforms represent a significant opportunity to transform outcomes for young people through a more inclusive, early-intervention-focused system. However, successful delivery depends on coherent implementation, sufficient capacity, and stronger multi-agency accountability. While confidence in the reform vision is high, concerns persist around funding, workforce, timelines, and the readiness of public sector partners.

A survey carried out for the report reveals that:

• Over 90% of local authorities believe reforms will strengthen early intervention.
• Over 80% expect improved outcomes; over 75% expect greater fairness and consistency.
• 96% support Individual Support Plans; 89% support EHCP threshold changes; 81% support parental preference reforms.
• Around 80% view tribunal reforms positively.
• 87% are confident in their own capacity to deliver reforms, but fewer than half are confident in partners.
• Only 57% expect improved partnership working; just 37% believe local government roles will be clear.
• A total of 43% say that implementation timescales are too ambitious; 20% say too slow.
• Fewer than 25% are confident funding will cover transition costs (rising to 44% post-legislation).

Recommendations to government

• Clarify accountability across local authorities, schools, and health partners, with stronger enforcement mechanisms.
• Develop a fully costed national workforce strategy to address shortages in specialist roles.
• Provide clearer, detailed guidance on inclusion standards, EHCP thresholds, and ISP implementation to reduce regional variation.
• Strengthen funding arrangements and ensure sufficient transitional investment to manage dual systems.
• Address key gaps, including post-16 pathways, support beyond SEND categories, and home-to-school transport reform.
• Build parental trust through transparent dispute resolution and early improvements in service delivery.