I have been made aware and have therefore written directly to the Reform Leader of Leicestershire County Council about the proposed changes to Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision for children aged 0–4.
There is considerable concern from our community, and families across Leicestershire, who have contacted me with real anxiety about the Council’s decision to stop commissioning specialist SEND nursery places for this age group.
As your MP, I have not been formally notified by the County Council of any changes or the consultation that is taking place.
Alberto Costa, MP for South Leicestershire, and I are working together to jointly raise your concerns.
There are understandable worries that this could put specialist nurseries at risk, including Sketchley Hill Menphys Nursery School, Wigston Menphys Nursery School, Oasis Retreat, and Lift Beacon.
As a result, I have directly asked the Council Leader to set out clearly:
- Why this change is being proposed
- The decision-making process and timeline
- How families and stakeholders will be informed and consulted
- Whether this is being driven by financial pressures or is evidenced by educational outcomes (and for the evidence to be shared)
- What steps will be taken to manage the impact on children and families
- How the Council would prevent specialist nursery closures
- Whether further SEND changes are being considered for other age groups
Many families are rightly worried. There is a LCC consultation currently open and I would strongly suggest anyone with an opinion voices it through the formal process. You can do so here: https://www.leicestershire.gov.uk/have-your-say/current-engagement/plans-to-provide-more-send-nursery-places-in-local-communities
As always, I will share updates as soon as I have any.
