We call on the UK Government and local authorities to urgently review and revise the current funding system for Post-16 Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision. The current approach is failing to meet the legal and moral obligation to support young people with complex needs, particularly those requiring 2:1 staffing ratios to access the community safely and continue meaningful education.

My daughter’s story is not unique:
She has profound and multiple learning disabilities, significant behavioural needs, and requires two staff members (2:1) to leave the house safely. Throughout her school years, this level of support was rightly funded and enabled her to engage with the world outside of her home.

But since turning 16, and transitioning into Post-16 education, Devon County Council’s 0–25 Team has refused to continue funding this essential support—even though her needs remain exactly the same.

As a result:

The only college that offered her an appropriate placement—tailored to her needs and inclusive of 2:1 staffing—was forced to withdraw the offer.
She now has no educational placement and is isolated at home, denied her right to education and community inclusion.
This is not just a personal tragedy. It is a systemic failure—and it is unlawful.

 
We demand:
Immediate revision of Post-16 SEND funding policies, ensuring continuity of support for learners whose needs remain unchanged.
Clear accountability from local authorities under the Children and Families Act 2014, the SEND Code of Practice (2015), and the Equality Act 2010.
Access to education and the community for all SEND learners, with funding allocated according to assessed need, not age or budgetary limitations.
 
Legal Rights Being Violated:
Children and Families Act 2014: Requires that the needs of young people with SEND be met through an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) up to age 25 where appropriate.
SEND Code of Practice (2015): Stipulates that provision must be based on the young person’s needs, not the institution or budget constraints.
Equality Act 2010: Prohibits discrimination based on disability and requires reasonable adjustments to ensure equal access to education and services.
Article 24 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD): Guarantees the right to inclusive education.
 
This broken funding system is excluding vulnerable young people from society and denying them a future. We call on the Department for Education, Devon County Council, and all responsible authorities to take urgent action to correct this injustice.