The SEND Revolution: Understanding the 44% Rise in Special Educational Needs Support
- Faye Owens
- Jun 13
- 8 min read
Recent government statistics reveal a remarkable shift in our educational landscape: special educational needs support has increased by 44% since 2016, with nearly one in five pupils now receiving SEND assistance. For families navigating autism and sensory processing challenges, this trend represents both opportunity and challenge.
If you're a parent or carer supporting a child with autism or sensory processing differences, you're not alone in feeling overwhelmed by the changing SEND landscape. The numbers tell a compelling story: we're witnessing the largest transformation in special educational needs support in a generation, and understanding this shift is crucial for every family seeking the best outcomes for their children.
The Numbers That Tell the Story
The latest government data paints a picture of unprecedented change in our schools. Since 2016, the number of children receiving all types of special needs support has risen by 44%, whilst those with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) has more than doubled [BBC News]
But these aren't just statistics – they represent real families, real children, and real needs finally being recognised and addressed. The most striking figure? One in five pupils in England now receives some form of SEND support, marking a fundamental shift in how we understand and respond to diverse learning needs.
Breaking Down the Data
The increase isn't uniform across all types of support:
- EHCP holders: Increased by 71% between 2018 and 2024, with nearly 5% of pupils now having EHCPs
- SEN Support: Rose to 14.2% of pupils in 2024, up from 13.6% the previous year
- Total SEND population: Now encompasses over 1.6 million pupils across England
For context, this means that in a typical classroom of 30 children, approximately 6 will have identified special educational needs – a reality that's reshaping how schools approach teaching and support.
Why Autism Leads the Way
Perhaps the most significant trend within these statistics is autism's emergence as the most common primary need for children with EHCPs. This shift reflects several important developments:
Improved Recognition and Diagnosis
The broadening of diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum conditions has played a crucial role in identification rates. We now recognise autism as a spectrum, understanding that children who might previously have been considered "quirky" or "difficult" may actually be autistic with specific support needs.
This improved recognition is particularly significant for:
- Girls and young women, who have historically been underdiagnosed
- Children with high-functioning autism who may mask their difficulties
- Those with co-occurring conditions like ADHD or anxiety
- Children from diverse backgrounds where autism may have been overlooked or misunderstood
Greater Awareness of Sensory Processing Needs
The rise in autism identification has brought sensory processing differences into sharp focus. We now understand that many behaviours previously labelled as "challenging" are actually sensory-seeking or sensory-avoiding responses. This awareness has led to:
- More nuanced assessment processes that consider sensory profiles
- Better understanding of how sensory needs impact learning and behaviour
- Recognition that sensory support is often fundamental to educational success
- Increased training for educators in sensory-aware approaches
Early Intervention and Prevention
Research consistently shows that early identification and intervention lead to better long-term outcomes. This has driven:
- Earlier screening processes in early years settings
- Improved transition support from nursery to school
- Better partnership working between health, education, and social care
- Increased investment in specialist early years provision
What This Means for Sensory-Seeking Children and Families
For families supporting children with sensory processing differences, this revolution brings both opportunities and challenges that deserve careful consideration.
The Opportunities
Increased Understanding: Schools are becoming more sensory-aware, with many investing in sensory rooms, movement breaks, and environmental modifications. Teachers are receiving training in autism and sensory processing, leading to more informed support strategies.
Better Resources: The increase in SEND funding has led to more occupational therapists in schools, sensory equipment, and specialist programmes. Many schools now have dedicated SEND teams with expertise in autism and sensory processing.
Stronger Legal Framework: The Children and Families Act 2014 strengthened the rights of children with SEND, making it easier to access support and hold services accountable for meeting needs.
Peer Support Networks: With more families navigating similar journeys, support groups and networks have flourished, providing invaluable peer support and shared learning.
The Challenges
System Strain: The rapid increase in demand has put significant pressure on SEND services. Waiting times for assessments have increased in many areas, and some families face lengthy battles to secure appropriate support.
Funding Pressures: Whilst overall SEND spending has increased, the 71% rise in EHCP holders has stretched budgets thin. Some schools struggle to provide adequate support within available resources.
Variability in Quality: Not all areas have adapted equally well to the increased demand. The quality of SEND provision can vary significantly between schools and local authorities.
Complexity of Needs: As we become better at identifying autism and sensory processing differences, we're also recognising the complexity of needs. Many children have multiple, interconnected challenges that require sophisticated, individualised approaches.
Effective Advocacy in the Changing Landscape
Understanding how to navigate this evolving system is crucial for securing the support your child needs. Here are key strategies for effective advocacy:
Know Your Rights
The SEND Code of Practice provides a framework for support, but knowing your rights is essential:
- Graduated Response: Schools must use a graduated approach, trying different strategies before considering an EHCP assessment
- Parent Participation: You have the right to be involved in all decisions about your child's support
- Independent Support: You can access independent advice during the EHCP process
- Annual Reviews: EHCPs must be reviewed annually, providing opportunities to adjust support
Document Everything
In an increasingly complex system, good record-keeping is vital:
- Keep detailed records of your child's sensory needs and how they impact learning
- Document all communications with school and other professionals
- Maintain evidence of strategies that work and those that don't
- Record your child's voice – their own descriptions of their needs and experiences
Build Relationships
Effective advocacy often depends on building positive relationships with professionals:
- Approach conversations as collaborative problem-solving rather than adversarial battles
- Recognise the pressures professionals face and work together to find solutions
- Share your expertise about your child – you know them better than anyone
- Celebrate successes and acknowledge good practice when you see it
Understand the Bigger Picture
Your child's support exists within a broader system context:
- Learn about your local authority's SEND strategy and how it affects provision
- Understand budget constraints and how they impact decision-making
- Stay informed about policy changes and their potential implications
- Connect with other families to share learning and build collective advocacy power
Practical Steps for Families Entering the SEND System
If you're new to the SEND world, the system can feel overwhelming. Here's a practical roadmap to help you navigate the early stages:
Step 1: Understand Your Child's Needs
Before engaging with formal processes, invest time in understanding your child's specific needs:
- Keep a sensory diary noting triggers, preferences, and patterns
- Observe how your child responds to different environments and activities
- Talk to your child about their experiences (age-appropriately)
- Consider private assessments if waiting times are lengthy
Step 2: Engage with School
Most SEND support begins with school-based interventions:
- Request a meeting with your child's teacher and SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)
- Share your observations and concerns clearly and specifically
- Ask about current support strategies and their effectiveness
- Discuss possible adjustments and interventions
Step 3: Access Professional Support
Various professionals can support assessment and intervention:
- Educational Psychologists: Assess learning needs and provide intervention recommendations
- Occupational Therapists: Evaluate sensory processing and motor skills
- Speech and Language Therapists: Support communication and social interaction needs
- Paediatricians: Provide medical assessments and diagnoses where appropriate
Step 4: Consider Formal Assessment
If school-based interventions aren't meeting your child's needs:
- Request an EHCP assessment through your local authority
- Gather supporting evidence from all relevant professionals
- Prepare a comprehensive picture of your child's needs and required support
- Consider independent advocacy support during the process
Resources for Families
Navigating the SEND system is easier with the right resources and support:
National Organisations
- IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice): Free legal advice and support
- Contact: Support for families with disabled children
- National Autistic Society: Autism-specific information and advocacy
- SEND Family Support: Practical guidance and emotional support
Local Resources
- Parent/Carer Forums: Every local authority has a forum providing collective advocacy
- Local Support Groups: Peer support from families with similar experiences
- Information, Advice and Support Services (IASS): Impartial advice about SEND provision
- Voluntary Sector Organisations: Often provide specialist support and activities
Online Resources
- GOV.UK SEND Guide: Official guidance on the SEND system
- Autism Education Trust: Training and resources for education settings
- STAR Institute for Sensory Processing: Tools and strategies for sensory support
- Autism Research Institute - Sensory Processing Resources: Evidence-based sensory strategies
- Social Media Groups: Peer support and shared experiences (choose carefully for quality information)
Looking Forward: Making the Most of the SEND Revolution
The 44% increase in SEND support represents more than statistical change, it reflects a fundamental shift towards recognising and responding to diverse learning needs. For families supporting children with autism and sensory processing differences, this presents unprecedented opportunities.
Key Success Factors
Stay Informed: The SEND landscape continues evolving. Keep up with policy changes, research developments, and best practice innovations.
Build Networks: Connect with other families, professionals, and advocates. Collective knowledge and support make individual journeys easier.
Maintain Hope: Whilst the system has challenges, more children than ever are receiving appropriate support. Your advocacy matters and can make a real difference.
Focus on Outcomes: Remember that the goal isn't just accessing support, but achieving meaningful outcomes that enable your child to flourish.
The Path Ahead
As we witness this SEND revolution, it's clear that we're moving towards a more inclusive, understanding approach to diverse learning needs. The statistics tell us that autism and sensory processing differences are being recognised as never before, creating opportunities for better support and outcomes.
However, with opportunity comes responsibility. As families, we must be informed advocates, thoughtful partners, and persistent champions for our children's needs. The system is changing, but it needs engaged families to ensure that change translates into meaningful support for every child who needs it.
The journey isn't always easy, but you're not walking it alone. The growing community of SEND families, increasing professional expertise, and stronger legal frameworks all work in your favour. By understanding the changes, knowing your rights, and advocating effectively, you can help ensure your child receives the support they need to thrive.
Remember, behind every statistic is a child with unique gifts, challenges, and potential. Your role as their advocate is crucial in helping them access the support that will enable them to flourish in their own distinctive way.
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Sources and References
7. House of Lords Library. (2024). "Special educational needs and disabilities: Government support."
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