Crisis in special education holding children back, says ombudsman

England's special educational system is failing, causing thousands of children to have their development put back by months or even years, according to a damning report by the local government ombudsman.

- Richard Adams

Amerdeep Somal, the local government and social care ombudsman, said her caseload is now dominated by complaints from families involving special educational needs (Sen) provision and schools, with more than 90% of complaints being upheld.

"Our evidence strongly indicates that the system is not working for children, families or local authorities. Resources are a challenge, many organisations lack vital staff and in many areas suitable and affordable support does not exist.

"The result is that young people, and their families, don't get the help they need and lose vital weeks, months and years of education and development as a result. They don't get that time back," Somal said, in her triennial review of operations.