In a significant development concerning the postcode lottery in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) funding, councils across England are projected to spend £14.8 billion in the 2025/26 fiscal year. This announcement comes as central government proposes an additional £4 billion in support for SEND over the next three years.
As of early 2025, there are approximately 1.7 million SEND pupils in England, highlighting the growing demand for adequate educational resources. Alarmingly, around two-thirds of special needs schools are reported to be at or over capacity, exacerbating the challenges faced by families and educators alike.
One notable initiative involves the sale of Braywick House, a Grade II-listed building with 4.5 acres of open space, which was sold in October 2025. The new SEND school operator plans to create approximately 120 school places at this location, aiming to alleviate some of the pressure on existing facilities.
CCLA Investment Management, which manages about £1.5 billion of UK commercial property, has also been in the spotlight. Their COIF Property Fund has delivered impressive returns, with a 6.11% return in 2024 and a 7.70% return in 2025, indicating a strong performance in the market.
The postcode lottery in SEND funding has raised concerns among parents and advocacy groups, as access to necessary support varies significantly across different regions. This disparity has led to calls for more equitable funding solutions to ensure that all children receive the support they need.
Linda Jardine, a prominent advocate for kinship care, emphasized the importance of community support, stating, “Kinship carers are extraordinary people who open their homes and their hearts to raise the child of a relative or friend.” Such sentiments reflect the broader community’s desire for improved educational resources and support systems.
As the situation evolves, stakeholders are keenly awaiting further details on how the proposed funding will be allocated and its potential impact on SEND services across the country. Events and initiatives aimed at raising awareness about these issues continue to emerge, as communities rally to support affected families.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact timeline for the implementation of these funding changes and their anticipated effects on local councils and schools.
