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“The Government needs to urgently complete its positive ongoing review of the SEND system. This needs to set out reforms that increase mainstream inclusion, provide councils with long-term certainty of funding to meet immense demand for SEND support."

"The impacts of COVID-19 will be with us for years to come. They will show up in economic hardship, mental health issues, attainment gaps and more, and it will be up to councils, schools and their partners to support children and their families to navigate these challenges."

"The Government needs to invest in early intervention and public health services, to enable councils to work more closely with the NHS, implement best practice and most importantly help give children the best start in life.”

"Councils have played a pivotal role in making the Supporting Families programme a success for some of the most vulnerable families, so it is good that local authorities continue to receive this funding to support this vital service for the coming year as it enters its next phase."

"Vulnerable groups unable to complete the EU Settlement Scheme may be given some flexibility and it will be important to identify well in advance those who may need support to access the scheme after the deadline."

“Any incidence of sexual harassment or assault is abhorrent. No child should fear going to school, and it is right that work is being undertaken immediately to consider how schools are working to keep children safe, as well as to give children a safe place to receive support and advice.”

Baroness Blake responds to a new law which received Royal Assent today, requiring schools to follow new statutory guidance on uniform costs, which will ensure prices are kept down.

“It is clear that many people will need to reskill for new jobs after the pandemic and it is good that the Queen’s Speech has included plans to attempt to address this."

"All children, including those with SEND, will undoubtedly need additional support in the coming weeks and months due to the impact of the pandemic".

“It is good that this research recognises that multi-agency support for pupils with SEND often complements the support offered by schools. However, the continued rise in demand for overall and new education, health and care (EHC) plans remains a pressing issue for councils as they strive to provide every child with the best possible support to meet their needs."