URL: https://doncaster.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=3671

Decision Maker: Executive Director of Children, Young People and Families (DCS), Service Director Partnership, Early Intervention and Localities

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: Significant surge in SEND identification since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic particularly among children with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), has placed the local system www.doncaster.gov.uk under considerable strain. This spike in demand has led to more children being placed out of borough, as local specialist capacity has not kept pace, increasing costs and reducing local inclusion. The SEND strategy highlights that local specialist provision is unable to cater for the increase in needs, contributing to a rise in costly non-local placements. It emphasises the need for prompt access to reliable, local, high-quality education, health and care services as part of strategic objectives.

Content:

Date of Decision: March 23, 2026