Recent statements from the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) and wider media coverage have revealed worrying signs that the government may be preparing to make major changes to how support for children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) is delivered in England.
From DLA (Disability Living Allowance) to EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans), the entire system may be on the verge of what some experts are calling “Welfare Reform 2.0”.
But what does that actually mean for families?
What’s Being Proposed?
The IFS recently stated there is a “strong case” for the government to review all support systems for SEND children. This includes education support (like EHCPs), transport, and disability benefits such as DLA.
They project that SEND spending could rise to £21 billion by 2029, suggesting that the current model is financially unsustainable. While the IFS is not a government body, its recommendations often shape future policy.
This has sparked concerns that instead of improving support, the government could:
- Tighten eligibility for EHCPs
- Replace DLA with something closer to PIP (Personal Independence Payment), which has tougher assessments
- Push for more “cost-effective” local mainstream placements, even where specialist provision is needed
What Are the Risks?
The biggest concern is that this reform will be driven by cost-cutting, not children’s needs.
We’ve seen this before with the shift from DLA to PIP for adults, which led to:
- Higher rejection rates
- More appeals
- Stressful assessments that don’t always recognise invisible disabilities
If the same model is applied to children, it could mean:
- More families losing access to essential benefits
- A reduction in 1:1 or tailored school support
- Local authorities rewriting EHCPs with vague language to save money
- Fewer specialist placements approved
What Could It Mean for Your Family?
If you rely on:
- DLA to afford daily care and travel costs
- EHCPs to secure school support or transport
- Specialist settings for your child to access education safely
…this could all be affected.
It might mean:
- Reassessment of your child’s benefits
- Increased pressure to prove their needs all over again
- Longer waiting times for support
- More tribunals and appeals
For families already burned out by the current system, this could be devastating.
How to Prepare
- Know your rights — Learn about Sections 19, 21, 42, and 66 of the Children and Families Act.
- Review your EHCP now — Is Section F specific and legally binding? If not, get it tightened.
- Gather evidence — From therapists, teachers, and medical professionals.
- Use tools like AskEllie+ — You can review your EHCP, generate letters, and get step-by-step support.
- Join local parent forums and national campaigns — You’re not alone.
Final Thoughts
Families of children with SEND have been fighting for years just to access what the law says their children are entitled to. Now it feels like we’re facing another storm.
As the government looks to “reform” SEND and disability support, it’s vital that families stay informed, stay united, and continue to speak up.
Because if we don’t, who will?
Free Support Use AskEllie+, the AI tool built by a parent, not a company, to help you navigate the EHCP and SEND system with confidence. Available now on ChatGPT.
Sources:
- Institute for Fiscal Studies (ifs.org.uk)
- The Guardian
- TES
- Special Needs Jungle
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