The strategy outlines how the council and its partners will deliver earlier intervention, greater inclusion, improved communication with families, and better preparation for adulthood, while ensuring services remain sustainable amidst growing demand. It focuses on four key outcomes: increased confidence in the SEND system for families and young people through clearer information and fairer decision-making; timely help closer to home, preferably in local schools; effective use of resources for timely support; and enhanced skills and knowledge for staff across education, health, and care services.
Building on the SEND Transformation Programme and the Department for Education-approved SEND Reform Plan, the strategy aims to strengthen inclusion in mainstream schools, improve Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), and provide more consistent family support. Sandwell has secured £3.3 million from the Department for Education for its 'Expert at Hand' model, granting schools better access to specialists like educational psychologists and speech therapists. An additional £900,000 investment by the council will bolster SEND services and family communication.
Support for younger children (aged 0-5) is being enhanced through Family Hubs, with dedicated Best Start in Life Inclusion Practitioners offering targeted assistance. Councillor Matt Lloyd, Sandwell Council's Cabinet Member for Children and Families, stated, "This strategy is another important step forward in improving support for children and young people with SEND in Sandwell. We are focused on identifying needs earlier, strengthening support closer to home and improving the experience of children, young people and families."
Councillor Jack Sabharwal, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, added, "At the heart of this strategy is a commitment to inclusion and ensuring that every child can access a high-quality education that meets their needs. We are working closely with schools to develop a consistent whole-school SEND and inclusion offer across Sandwell."
The strategy will be implemented through a phased programme from 2026 to 2029, supported by robust governance, performance monitoring, and ongoing engagement with stakeholders. Key notes include that SEND stands for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, and AP for Alternative Provision. The strategy was approved by Cabinet on 14 October 2026.
