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SEND Reform: Information for Parents

This page explains the SEND reforms, what they mean for families, and how services will work together to support every child to achieve and thrive.

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Every Child Achieving and Thriving

In February 2026, the government published the Every Child Achieving and Thriving White Paper. It sets out a vision for how children and young people should be supported to achieve, belong and thrive in their education and wider lives.

The White Paper focuses on creating a more inclusive, joined-up system, where education, health and care services work together to support children and families more effectively.

What this means for children and families

  • A stronger focus on helping every child to achieve and thrive

  • Support that is joined up across education, health and care

  • Families being actively involved in decisions about their child

  • Help that is provided early, clearly and consistently

  • Greater focus on inclusion, belonging and wellbeing

Working together for better support

The White Paper highlights the importance of joined-up working across services, so families do not have to repeat their story and can access the right support at the right time.

Find out more

You can read the full Every Child Achieving and Thriving White Paper here:

We will continue to update this page with local information, support services and opportunities for parents and carers to share their views.

In this topic

  • SEND Reform: DfE Information sheets

    Guidance and information from the DfE for parents of children and young people with SEND across different school settings.

    Learn more