More than 9 in 10 plans outlining how local areas will implement government’s SEND reforms in return for a near-complete write off of historical deficits have been approved by ministers. The Department for Education has today confirmed that “more than 90 per cent” of local SEND reform plans – submitted to the DfE by councils and integrated care boards – have been given the green light. This equates to at least 137 councils with responsibility for education. Ministers said they would wipe 90 per cent of councils’ historical SEND deficits in return for approved plans. It is estimated doing so will cost the government more than £5 billion. Schools Week has published copies of the first 40 draft local SEND reform plans released by councils in an interactive map. Our investigation found that most councils feared a shortage of specialist staff for the new “experts at hand” service threatens to undermine proposals. Councils have also set targets for reductions in education, health and care plan numbers and requests, with some fearing a “fragmented” school system could hamper inclusion. ‘Work closely’ with councils A government spokesperson said: “Local authorities and integrated care boards are central to improving support for children and young people with SEND. That’s why we asked every area to show how they will deliver our reforms. “With over 90 per cent of plans approved, almost every part of the country has now set out how it will improve SEND support.” The announcement means around 15 councils had their plans “deferred by the DfE”, meaning they have until November to re-submit them. The DfE said it would publish their names shortly. “Councils and integrated care boards are accountable for the local partnerships delivering reform plans and we will work closely with the small number that have been deferred, before they re-submit them.” The DfE said town halls with deferred plans should continue to “deliver services as normal”.