Decision details

Outcomes for SEND children in Surrey are lower than our peers and need to improve.  Feedback from children, young people and families as well as our regulators also highlight that the service needs to improve. 

Demand is increasing at much higher levels than funding. The service needs to be transformed to ensure it is financially sustainable in order to meet needs.

It is proposed that a public consultation be carried out to focus on the development of a strategy to support transformation, focusing particularly on:

•        A joined up and whole system approach to practice and support for children and young people.

•        Early support and prevention, including preventing the escalation to more complex needs.

•        A whole system approach with Education, Health, Care and partners

•        Commissioning to ensure appropriate sufficiency and cost effective local provision.

•        A reduction in SEND transport costs through increased local placements.

This will be enabled by improved data and insight as well as digital solutions.

It was AGREED to commence public consultation on the proposal outlined.