SEND reforms and Statements of Special Educational Need
How has the law changed?
In September 2014 the Children and Families Act 2014 came into force. A new SEND Code of Practice covers children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities from birth to age 25. One big change is that Education, Health and Care Plans (EHC plans) will replace Statements of SEN and LDAs.
The SEND Code of Practice says:
The purpose of an EHC plan is to make special educational provision to meet the special educational needs of the child or young person, to secure the best possible outcomes for them across education, health and social care and, as they get older, prepare them for adulthood. (9.2)
Every local authority should publish a local transition plan. This explains when and how Statements will be transferred to the new system, and gives information for young people in further education and training who receive support through an LDA.