Kent County Council SEND praised by government minister after making improvements to service

A government minister has lifted a formal notice for Kent County Council (KCC) to improve services to children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Nine areas of weakness were identified by inspectors and the council was ordered to act on them.

Children’s Minister Janet Daby said “considerable progress” had been made since a critical report by Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) during a visit in September 2022.

The announcement to lift the notice was made after a monitoring visit in April.

KCC worked with the NHS to achieve the outcomes it was required to, earning praise from Mrs Daby.

She noted an increased pace of change and improved partnership working.

The minister said: “I was encouraged to read the local area was able to demonstrate evidence of considerable progress since the improvement notice was issued.

“I have noted that strengthened capacity and strong governance arrangements, alongside renewed commitment from senior leaders and improved partnership working across the local area has increased the pace of change over the last 16 months.

“I have therefore taken the decision to lift the improvement notice on the understanding the provision of SEND services remains a priority for all in the local area…my decision is a reflection of the hard work undertaken by the local area to improve services.”

KCC had faced a litany of criticism, which included poor standards and processes and weak governance in the sector.

Cabinet member for education and skills, Rory Love, said: “Since my appointment, we have strengthened our internal teams, strengthened our working practices, and strengthened our partnerships…the hard work of all concerned is now bringing benefits for children, young people, and their families.”

Corporate director for children, young people and education, Sarah Hammond, said: “I also want to thank all the young people and their parents and carers for sharing their experiences and feedback. Your willingness to work positively with us has been critical to helping shape the improvements we have collectively made across the SEND system.”

NHS Kent and Medway’s chief delivery officer, Lee Martin, said: “It is good news for children in Kent with special educational needs and disabilities, their families and our colleagues, who will continue to work hard to support them.”