How can we create a truly inclusive education system that meets the needs of every child and young person with SEND?

Despite growing awareness and national efforts to reform the system, many children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) continue to face inconsistent and unequal support across England. According to the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST), demand for SEND services has risen significantly, with Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) requests increasing by over 40% since 2020. This surge has placed mounting pressure on local authorities and schools, many of which are already grappling with staff shortages, funding constraints, and rising tribunal cases due to dissatisfaction with the provision of support.

The ongoing implementation of the SEND and Alternative Provision Improvement Plan marks a pivotal opportunity to strengthen accountability, standardise provision, and improve outcomes. However, the sector still faces considerable uncertainty around how these reforms will be resourced and embedded, particularly at a local level. Persistent delays in assessments, variable quality of support, and fragmented collaboration between education, health and care services remain pressing challenges.

The Institute of Government & Public Policy is proud to present the National Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Conference 2026, the ninth edition of this flagship national event. Building on the success of previous years, the 2026 conference will bring together SENDCOs, inclusion leads, Headteachers, CEOs and representatives from Local Authorities, charities and social enterprises, offering an essential platform for sharing practical solutions, policy updates, and sector-wide collaboration.

Join us at the National Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Conference 2026 and learn practical methods to meet the SEND Code of Practice standards and maximise funding in delivering SEND provisions. Register now to secure your place at the Manchester show alongside prominent SEND professionals nationwide.