Letter to the Education Secretary - SEND

I’ve had the privilege of hearing directly from parents, guardians, and children across our constituency who gave up their Friday evening or Saturday morning to share their experiences navigating the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system.

I want to thank every family who took part. I know how difficult it was for many to speak openly about the daily strain they face, and I’m deeply grateful for the trust you placed in me. Your voices made one thing abundantly clear: the current system is not working - not for children, not for families, not for schools, and not for our local authorities, Buckinghamshire Council and Milton Keynes City Council.

That’s why this Labour Government is committed to reforming the SEND system, so that every young person receives the support they need, when they need it, and can truly thrive.

I’ve also met virtually with SENCOs and school leaders from across Buckingham and Bletchley to hear the school perspective. These conversations, along with the insights shared at our summits and via email, have formed the basis of a letter I’ve sent to Bridget Phillipson MP, Secretary of State for Education.

📄 You can read the letter here

A special thank you to Lift at Sir Herbert Leon Academy and Winslow Town Council for opening their doors and creating space for these important conversations. Together, we’re building a case for change.