Decision

The council has decided to approve a new model of funding for early years SEND provision.

Analysis

outcome: Recommendations were approved, including changes to the SENDIF Emerging Fund, an increase to the hourly rate for SENDIF+, and a new hourly rate for a specialist Early Years Inclusion Centre.

summary: The decision involves approving a new model of funding for early years SEND provision.

topline: The council has decided to approve a new model of funding for early years SEND provision.

reason_contentious: This issue may be contentious as it involves changes to funding and rates for early years SEND provision, which could impact various stakeholders.

affected_stakeholders: ["Early years SEND providers", "Children with complex SEND needs", "Parents of children with SEND"]

contentiousness_score: 6

political_party_relevance: There are no mentions or implications of political parties or political influence on the decision.

URL: https://democracy.portsmouth.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1713

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: Approved the principles of a new model of funding for early years SEND provision based on the following three components: 1.    Changes to the SENDIF Emerging Fund as set out in paragraph 4.2 to be implemented from 1 September 2025. 2.    An increase to the hourly rate for SENDIF+ based on the changes set out in paragraph 4.3 to be implemented from 1 September 2025. 3.    A new hourly rate for a specialist Early Years Inclusion Centre to support children with the most complex SEND, the details of which are set out in paragraphs 4.4 to 4.5 and in Appendices A and B to be implemented as soon as practically possible subject to an assessment of expressions of interest from providers.  

Date of Decision: July 22, 2025