SEND Override Decision

The SEND deficit “statutory override” due to end next March, has been extended until the end of 2027-28.

The override means that high needs spending deficits remain removed from  councils’ general balance sheets. It was believed that if the override had been cancelled up to half of local authorities risked going bust as the total value of high needs deficits amounted to £5 billion. Devon currently has a total overspend for high needs in excess of £130 million.

The government remains committed to reforming services for children with special educational needs and disabilities, which would include ensuring councils are properly funded to help support and protect the most vulnerable children.

Latest statistics indicate that the number of EHC plans nationally as at January 2025 is 638,745 an increase of 10.8% from January 2024. Would you like a better understanding of SEND?  Have a look at our DAG Busy Governance Guide to SEND for more information.