The government’s efforts to revamp the special education needs and disabilities system have drawn criticism from the education minister for Reform UK’s stance of faulting parents. Schools standards minister Georgia Gould rebuked comments from Reform UK members, citing accusations of children misbehaving, inadequate parenting, and an alleged overdiagnosis of SEND issues.
Gould vehemently dismissed the notion that parents are at fault, emphasizing the detrimental effect such claims have on children’s self-perception and integration within the school community. She stressed the importance of supporting parents and collaborating with them to address system deficiencies instead of assigning blame.
Reform UK’s deputy leader, Richard Tice, has repeatedly challenged the SEND system, claiming an excessive diagnosis of children with SEND and expressing disbelief at children using ear defenders in classrooms. Tice also insinuated that some parents exploit the SEND system for financial gain, suggesting that affluent families seek VAT exemptions on private school fees through SEND accommodations.
Earlier statements by Nigel Farage echoed concerns of overdiagnosis of mental health and behavioral issues in children, leading to a victim mentality. Dr. David Bull of Reform faced backlash from Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson for his remarks labeling some children as “naughty” due to bad parenting.
Amidst a struggling SEND system inherited by the Labour Party, Gould has been engaging with experts, parents, and children nationwide ahead of the Government’s SEND White Paper release. Many parents, disillusioned by school, council, and government failures, eagerly anticipate the proposed reforms.
Gould expressed optimism after her countrywide interactions, highlighting the willingness of individuals to contribute to solutions despite past disappointments. She acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasized the widespread commitment within society to support children with special educational needs. Teachers, in particular, are eager to cater to all children’s educational needs, even those who struggle in mainstream classrooms.
The government has allocated over £3 billion to establish new specialist places, enhance teacher training, and appoint dedicated SEND leads in all Best Start Family Hubs nationwide. In response to Gould’s comments, a Reform UK spokesperson defended their position, citing concerns of overdiagnosis in the SEND system and its financial strain on schools and local authorities.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting’s acknowledgment of an “overdiagnosis” of mental health conditions was met with criticism initially but later, he vowed to rectify the system’s shortcomings.
