As a parent of a special needs child who has been home educated due to the lack of suitable accommodations in traditional schools, I am starting this petition to advocate for local authority and government funding to support fees for college education.

My personal story is one that resonates with many other families facing similar challenges. My autistic son was unable to receive the necessary support in his previous school, and there were no available places at any Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools in our area or surrounding areas. Faced with limited options, we made the difficult decision to home educate him.

Recently, we received a last-minute placement offer at a college for a 14-16 programme tailored towards his needs. However, because my son has an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP), there are additional support costs associated with his enrollment. Unfortunately, our Local Authority (LA) has refused to cover these fees, leaving us solely responsible for their payment.

The EHCP is designed specifically to determine the level of support required by children like my son who have special educational needs. These costs can quickly become overwhelming and burdensome for families already navigating through various challenges associated with raising a child with special needs.

It is unjust that parents like myself are expected to bear these financial responsibilities alone when seeking appropriate educational opportunities for our children. The provision of adequate funding from local authorities and government bodies would alleviate this financial strain and ensure equal access to education for all children regardless of their learning abilities.

By signing this petition, you are joining me in urging local authorities and governments across the country:

1. To recognize the importance of providing funding specifically allocated towards supporting fees for home educated special needs children with active EHCPs attending colleges.
2. To review existing policies regarding funding allocation and make necessary amendments that prioritize inclusive education.
3. To collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including parents, educators, and advocacy groups, to develop comprehensive funding strategies that address the unique needs of home educated special needs children.

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of countless families who are currently facing financial barriers to accessing appropriate educational opportunities for their special needs children. Let us ensure that every child has an equal chance to thrive and succeed. Sign this petition today and help us secure a brighter future for our children.

Thank you for your support.