‘Our Children Matter’: Parents Protest Against SEND Reform Plans
This week, Westminster became the stage for a powerful show of unity as hundreds of parents and carers travelled from across England to voice their fears about the government’s proposed overhaul of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision.
Up to 700 families, many holding handmade banners, gathered outside parliament. Messages like “Stop cuts, start caring” and “Make sure my voice is heard” captured the strength of feeling. The rally was sparked by growing concern that Labour’s reforms could restrict or even abolish Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), legally binding documents that more than 600,000 children and young people rely on for individual support.
Why Families Are Worried
One in 20 children in England currently has an EHCP.
Numbers have risen by 80% since 2018, showing both greater need and greater awareness.
Parents fear reforms will shift focus onto cost-cutting and “mainstreaming,” rather than individualised, enforceable support.
Many families already feel the system is stacked against them, with lengthy waits, refusals, and battles at tribunal. The thought of losing EHCP rights altogether has amplified their anxiety.
Political Pressure Mounts
Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey, himself a SEND parent, addressed the crowd, warning the prime minister: “This is the last chance saloon for you. Get this wrong and you are out.” He acknowledged reform was needed but insisted parents would not accept a system that weakens their children’s rights.
Education secretary Bridget Phillipson responded by promising that Labour’s plan would invest £1bn into SEND and £750m in new specialist places, alongside better early intervention. However, her call to “end the battles” over access to support has left many parents sceptical, particularly with fears that EHCPs may be diluted in the process.
The Road Ahead
Later the same day, MPs debated an e-petition signed by more than 120,000 people, calling on the government to retain the legal right to assessment and support in education. Campaigners argue that without this safeguard, children could be left adrift in a system already struggling to meet demand.
The government’s long-awaited schools white paper, expected this autumn, will set out the reforms in detail. Parents, campaigners and charities are already preparing to fight to protect the legal entitlements that EHCPs provide.
Final Thoughts
The message from Westminster was clear: families are tired of fighting for the basics. EHCPs are not a luxury, they are a lifeline.
The coming months will determine whether those words are heard inside parliament as loudly as they were outside it.
