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Meeting with Stephen Morgan MP

On 5th September 2024, the NNPCF, along with Dingley’s Promise (Dingley’s Promise – Homepage – Dingley’s Promise) met the Minster or Early Education, Stephen Morgan MP, to discuss the importance of SEND in Early Years. 

Minister Morgan was very much in listening mode about what changes needed to happen in Early Years and had a good understanding of what was happening in the Early Years sector. 

Amongst the many topics discussed were the following: 

  • The importance of reviewing the link between Disability Access Funding (DAF) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA).  Currently to be able to apply for DAF the family must be in receipt of DLA.  This puts significant pressure on families, and for many parent carers it is simply too early in their journey to feel comfortable making an application. Separating DAF and DLA to enable easier access to the DAF funding and ring-fencing the DAF funding would ensure more of the funds can be used to meet the needs of SEND in the Early Years.  DAF funding is already available but currently 48% (data from Dingley’s Promise) is being fully spent by Local Authorities.  
  • The importance of including health partners in Early Years especially, speech and language, occupational therapists and general practitioners (GPs) with clear pathways for families to follow.  
  • The importance of Health Visitors and how their Health Checks need to be working with the DfE Early Years toolkits and ensuring advice is joined up.  Along with supporting the increasing number of families who are concerned about SEND can find now clear information about whether their concerns are SEND related or natural development. 
  • The importance of Local Authorities mapping out the Early Years SEND Provision.  Whilst all Early Years settings are inclusive, there are staffing and financial implications, which may impact the number of SEND places available in a provision. 
  • The importance of good quality SEND training for Early Years practitioners and Primary SENDCo’s.  
  • The importance of a good transition in every aspect of a SEND Child in Early Years, particularly to a new setting and to primary school. 
  • The importance of well-trained settings and practitioners in Early Years SEND, and how this improves educational outcomes. 

We look forward to hearing what the Minster Morgan’s next steps are for SEND Early Years.