Councils in England are projecting a significant increase in debts related to special educational needs and disability (SEND) support, potentially reaching £10 billion by 2028. This surge is attributed to a rise in applications for education, health, and care plans (EHCPs), as parents seek to secure support ahead of anticipated government reforms.
The County Councils Network has expressed concerns that without government assurances to cover future SEND debts, many local authorities could face bankruptcy. The situation reflects broader challenges in public finance, particularly in managing rising demands for mental health and educational support services.