More than one in five pupils in England have special educational needs, figures show

The Department for Education (DfE) reported that more than one in five pupils in England now have special educational needs, indicating a significant rise in the number of children requiring additional support. This increase aligns with predictions of a surge in families pursuing Education, Health, and Care plans (EHCPs), which outline specific support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (Send). The data was released ahead of the government's planned reforms to Send funding and provision. The annual figures highlight the growing pressure on schools, local authorities, and families to manage the escalating demand for specialized educational services. The trend suggests a sustained increase in identified needs, potentially impacting resource allocation and educational strategies across the country. The DfE's statistics provide a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of Send provision in England.