More funding for SEND in Dorset schools

Dorset schools are facing £4.2 million in cuts. Dorset CCG's new Development and Behaviour Pathway puts the responsibility on schools to make referrals for conditions like ASD and ADHD. Schools, which have had to make cuts to staff and increase class sizes, will struggle to meet this requirement. Children will be at risk of being left without a diagnosis unless there is extra funding and training for schools. The current situation is unacceptable; a lack of support for children and young adults with SEND because of school budget cuts; delays in assessments for ASD and ADHD, have led to an increase in pupils being excluded from school with no adequate alternative provision. Many families are desperate and have little or no support and schools are struggling to cope. We call on Dorset Council to demand proper funding from government for schools and SEND provision and to put an end to the crisis we now face.