Sandwell MPs welcome a huge increase in SEND provision funding for Sandwell Metropolitan Borough
Sandwell MPs Antonia Bance, Sarah Coombes and Gurinder Singh Josan CBE, wrote to the Minister for School Standards asking how the £1 billion uplift announced in the Chancellors budget to improve SEND and alternative provision would be distributed, lobbying the government to make sure Sandwell gets its fair share, after concerns from the local council about how the funding would be allocated.
The Minister for School Standards confirmed Sandwell would receive a huge increase of 9.3% per head meaning Sandwell’s overall allocation will be over £81 million.
In her letter, the Minister for School Standards, Catherine McKinnell MP said: “For too long the education system has not met the needs of all children, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities, with parents struggling to get their children the support they need and deserve.
“Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council’s allocation is over £81 million, which is a 9.3% increase per head of its 2-18-year-old population, on its equivalent 2024-25 NFF allocation.”
“This funding increase is an important step in realising our vision to reform SEND provision, driving greater mainstream inclusion, improving outcomes, and returning the system to financial sustainability.”
Sandwell MPs, Antonia Bance, Sarah Coombes and Gurinder Singh Josan CBE said: "This is great news for local kids and their parents. SEND funding has been under huge pressure in Sandwell in recent years and too many children haven't got the opportunities and support they need."
"At last this Labour government has made sure Sandwell gets its fair share of funding and recognised that we need more help as our families often earn lower wages and have fewer resources"
