Torbay’s local reform plan for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has been given the green light by the government.

Developed in collaboration with families over the summer, it’s an ambitious three-year plan for children and young people with SEND in Torbay.

The go ahead from the government also unlocks a grant to assist in repaying up to 90 per cent of the partnership’s SEND overspend up to the end of 2025/26.

The Torbay SEND local area partnership developed the plan alongside parent carers following engagement which included contribution from children and young people.

The plan places a strong emphasis on early intervention and education inclusion. It explains how Torbay will locally adopt the government’s Experts at Hand offer, which helps to identify children’s needs earlier to make sure they’re receiving the best possible support in their everyday education environments.

Councillor Nick Bye, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services at Torbay Council, said: “We are pleased that the Torbay reform plan has received approval. This is an important milestone that reflects the strong partnership working across Torbay and our shared commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people with SEND.

“We are now focused on delivering the plan and continuing our partnership’s improvement journey to secure lasting positive outcomes for children and young people with SEND.

“This approval, and the funding that comes with it, comes just weeks after inspectors from the Department for Education gave us positive feedback following their summer ‘deep dive’ visit.

“We are on a positive trajectory, building the momentum and evidence needed to demonstrate tangible improvements when we are reinspected.”

Torbay’s SEND local area partnership consists of Torbay Council, the NHS Integrated Care Board, the parent carer forum SEND Family Voice Torbay and schools and education settings.

Earlier this year, the government carried out consultation on national reform of the SEND system. The consultation closed in May and the government is now considering consultation responses.

At the same time, it asked all local authorities to develop and submit their own local plans before it makes its final national policy decision.

It is this local plan that has now been approved by ministers.

It is expected that the government will make an announcement on the outcome of its national consultation soon.

Read Torbay’s SEND local reform plan