If you signed the petition calling on the Government to “Retain legal right to assessment and support in education for children with SEND”, there is encouraging news.
The issue will be debated in Parliament on 15th September 2025.
The issue was brought to light when an Isle of Wight mother of three spoke out about the personal toll of fighting for her children’s educational support—and why she believes proposed changes to SEND law would be devastating.
She urged Islanders to sign a petition that calls on the government to retain the legal right to assessment and support in education for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Government asked to clarify its position
Later that month, in June 2025, OnTheWight reported that the Petitions Committee reviewed the Government’s initial response to the petition.
The cross-party group of MPs concluded that the response did not directly address the petition’s request. They asked the Government to provide a revised response, which has now led to the scheduled debate in September.
Concerns over proposed legal changes
The petition received 119,210 signatures and reads:
“Support in education is a vital legal right of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). We ask the government to commit to maintaining the existing law, so that vulnerable children with SEND can access education and achieve their potential.”
Campaigners are concerned that the Government may change the Children and Families Act 2014.
This legislation defines the legal rights for disabled children to receive assessment and statutory support in education.
Impact on children and long-term costs
The petition argues that removing statutory duties from local authorities could lead to many children missing out on the support they need.
It also suggests that early support not only helps vulnerable children and their families, but also reduces public costs later in life.
