My son has an Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan and is diagnosed as autistic and ADHD. Yet, despite these documented needs, he has been left behind and ignored by our local council. Since the end of July, we have received little to no contact, and now my son is without a school as he transitions to secondary education. This is not just our story; it is a troubling reality for many families whose children have similar needs.

Children with disabilities and special educational needs rely on EHC plans to receive the support they need to thrive. However, when the transition from primary to secondary school approaches, many children with EHC plans are failed by the system. Absence of a seamless transition process can severely impact these children’s development and learning, leaving them without the necessary environment to achieve their potential.

Primary schools and councils are currently not sufficiently held accountable for ensuring that children with EHC plans are placed in appropriate secondary schools. It's time for change. We need to implement fines, charges, or mandate primary schools to return their funding if they fail to secure a suitable school transition for children with EHC plans. These measures will ensure accountability and improve the diligence of schools and councils in addressing the educational needs of these children.

Statistics reveal that about 15% of children in the UK have some form of special educational need (SEN), with a significant portion holding EHC plans. Despite this, many are left waiting indefinitely for suitable school placements due to inefficiencies and lack of accountability.

Every child deserves the right to an education that caters to their specific needs. We cannot allow these children to continue being neglected. By ensuring penalties are taken against schools and councils that fail their duty, we can help ensure every child receives the education they deserve.

Please sign and support this petition to demand immediate action from the government to protect children with EHC plans and hold responsible parties accountable if they fail to meet these children's educational needs. Together, we can build a future where every child, regardless of their challenges, has the opportunity to learn and succeed.