White Paper 2026 - Every Child Achieving & Thriving

By Dan Callaghan - Provision Manager

The publication of the Government’s SEND White Paper has sparked a wide range of responses across the sector. Some professionals welcome the renewed focus on inclusion, while others are apprehensive about potential changes to legal protections and resourcing. For many, the reforms raise as many questions as they answer.

At Creating Futures Together, we have spent time exploring what these proposals might mean for the young people, families and schools we work alongside every day. Below, we share our early reflections.

Positive Steps Forward

There are several aspects of the White Paper that offer encouragement, particularly for those who have long campaigned for earlier, more consistent support.

One of the most promising developments is the proposed increase in investment for inclusion and early intervention. This has the potential to help young people access the right support before they reach crisis point—something that schools and families have been calling for over many years.

The White Paper also places a stronger emphasis on workforce development. Improving the confidence and capability of mainstream settings to meet diverse needs is essential if inclusion is to become a reality rather than a statement of intent.

Additionally, the move towards clearer documentation and more consistent planning frameworks may help align expectations between schools, families and local authorities. Anything that reduces confusion and creates shared understanding is a step in the right direction.

Questions and Concerns

However, not all aspects of the proposals have been met with enthusiasm.

There are concerns that some of the reforms could weaken existing legal rights, particularly when it comes to securing appropriate placements. Families already face significant challenges navigating the system, and any dilution of the framework that protects them is understandably worrying.

Another issue is the potential for increased inconsistency between different regions. If local areas interpret or implement the reforms differently, the existing postcode lottery experienced by many families could deepen.

Furthermore, even with new investment, local services that are already stretched may struggle to deliver the scale of change envisaged. Without sustainable capacity, the impact of the reforms may be limited.

Areas Still Unclear

Like any major policy proposal, much of the detail is still emerging, and several aspects remain ambiguous.

One particular grey area is how the new tiered support model will operate in practice. Many learners do not fit neatly into predefined categories, and there is a risk that those who sit between “managing” and “requiring an EHCP” may find themselves overlooked.

There is also uncertainty around digitalisation. While digital plans and multi-agency panels could improve efficiency, they could equally add new layers of administration. Their success will depend on thoughtful implementation.

Finally, the overall timeline remains uncertain. Much of the White Paper is still at the consultation stage, and the transition period will be critical in determining how effectively the reforms are embedded.

Our Commitment

Regardless of the policy landscape, our mission remains unchanged. At Creating Futures Together, we are committed to ensuring that every young person with SEND receives the right support, in the right environment, at the right time.

We welcome any steps that genuinely strengthen inclusion and improve access to meaningful support. At the same time, we will continue to advocate for approaches that protect young people’s rights and prioritise their long‑term wellbeing and outcomes.