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“Despite the best of intentions, the current system is not working, and we are pleased government has set out reforms to address this. They will only succeed if parents and carers have confidence in the system."

“This cross-government review of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) support is good news and is what the LGA has previously called for."

“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."

“No young person should have to go hungry and ensuring vulnerable pupils are provided for is a top priority for councils who have worked hard with their partners to support children and families during the pandemic."

With councils now looking after nearly 16,000 more children than they were 10 years ago, and the needs of those young people becoming more complex, it is becoming increasingly difficult for councils to make sure that every child has the best home to meet their needs

"We want every resident to have a good quality of life and to be able to improve their circumstances regardless of their background or where they live."

Cllr Anntoinette Bramble, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Children and Young People Board, responds to the announcement by the Department for Education of funding to support children with special educational needs and disabilities.

“The extra funding for adult and children’s social care announced today is positive but will not on its own be enough to tackle the significant challenges facing children’s social care which was already under strain prior to the pandemic as a result of increasing demand and long-term funding reductions."

“Alongside other partners, councils have also made good progress in improving children’s health, from health visitors supporting new parents to weight management services."

“It is essential that we have enough childcare places to support families to ensure the country can recover from COVID-19, both economically and socially."