Havering's SEND Reform Plan Receives Department for Education Approval

Council welcomes DfE's endorsement of the plan, aiming to strengthen support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

Generic image of official documents being reviewed and approved.
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Generic image of official documents being reviewed and approved.

Havering Council has welcomed the Department for Education's (DfE) approval of its Local SEND Reform Plan, a significant step towards strengthening support for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and their families.

The approved plan outlines a programme of improvement developed collaboratively by the Council, NHS partners, schools, education settings, families, and stakeholders. It aims to deliver better outcomes for children and young people across Havering.
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"I am delighted that Havering's SEND Reform Plan has been approved. This is a significant achievement and reflects the hard work, commitment and collaboration of colleagues across the Council, NHS partners, schools, families and the wider SEND community."

Councillor Kevin Gill · Cabinet Member for Children and Young People
Councillor Kevin Gill stated that the plan's approval recognises the progress made and the shared vision to enhance the experiences and outcomes for children and young people with SEND. The framework established will focus on ensuring families receive timely and appropriate support, enabling children and young people to thrive within their local communities.
Councillor Gill acknowledged that the journey continues, with ongoing efforts required to improve services and strengthen partnerships between the Council and its partners. He emphasised the commitment to delivering timely assessments, high-quality support, clear communication, and seamlessly integrated services, which remain key priorities.
Key priorities for the coming months include improving the timeliness and quality of Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) processes, strengthening joint working across education, health, and social care, and increasing access to local support. The Council also aims to enhance communication and co-production with families, ensure financial sustainability of services amidst rising needs, and deliver measurable improvements in outcomes for children and young people with SEND.
Regular updates on the SEND Reform Plan's progress will be provided, with continued close collaboration with children, young people, and families to ensure ongoing service improvement.
Based on information from the official source: London Borough of Havering (28/10/2026)