A motion was agreed at a Full Council meeting on Wednesday (20 November) recommending all three Hertsmere political group leaders write to the Leader of Hertfordshire County Council calling for a review of the tribunal system which supports children in the County with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
The Labour and Liberal Democrat Group Leaders have confirmed that they will use the mandate from the Council to call for improved assessment of potential tribunal cases to better identify where the County Council might be unsuccessful, in turn freeing up resources to improve services which support children with special educational needs.
The motion was proposed by Cllr Maxie Allen, ward councillor for Bushey Park and seconded by Cllr Helen Green, ward councillor for Bentley Heath and The Royds.
Cllr Allen explained: “Last year, both Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission identified ‘widespread and systemic failings’ in Hertfordshire County Council’s provision for children with SEND. It was found that children have been made to wait as long as 78 weeks for help, adding to the emotional distress for them and their families.
“There’s also been a significant increase in the number of appeals by parents and carers regarding inadequate service provision for children with SEND, and last year Hertfordshire County Council chose to contest nearly a fifth of the 514 appeals that took place through the tribunal process.”
Cllr Green added: “When Hertfordshire contests an appeal, it’s been shown that that it is almost certain to lose and it also delays vitally-needed support for the child, which can often lead to a deterioration in their condition. In 2023/24, tribunals conceded or allowed 94% of all cases brought against Hertfordshire.
“I am really heartened that Hertsmere’s elected members have agreed that representations should be made to Hertfordshire County Council about this matter, calling for improvements to a service that is vital in a fair and just society.”
To read the motion in full, visit item 20a of the Full Council agenda for 20 November: Agenda for Council on Wednesday, 20 November 2024, 7.00 pm (moderngov.co.uk)
