Watch my speech on Reform Kent's failure to deliver for SEND children

In my capacity as Lib Dem Schools Spokesperson, I spoke in a parliamentary debate on SEND in Kent this week.

It was interesting when preparing for the speech to see just how many historic similarities there are in SEND support and delivery in Kent and Devon.

Like here, Kent Council has in the past struggled to deliver EHCPs in a timely manner, with just 13% given in the 20-week deadline in the year to March 24.

Much like other local authorities, Kent has statutory duties to meet EHCP deadlines and provide provision but are facing rising demand and declining resources.

Where Kent differs greatly from Devon is that earlier this year Reform became the leader of the Council. Since then, the pre-existing issues have become far, far worse.

My Lib Dem colleagues at the council report that Reform are acting like clowns in the circus, with the most vulnerable children in society suffering because of their deep unseriousness.

The Council’s June meeting on children, young people, and education was postponed indefinitely, pushing back any support that might be provided. Other committee meetings, cabinet meetings, and subcommittees have also been cancelled thanks to Reform’s incompetence.

Not only are they unable to grapple with the SEND crisis, but the party’s leader is suggesting new ways to exacerbate the problem and deny support to children and their families.

The Council leader recently said that the country was watching them to see how a Reform Government would deliver. If they are, they’ll see a party unfit to deliver for SEND children.