The number of children receiving support for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) has reached a new record level, according to the latest government figures.
Data shows that the number of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) increased by 12.5% between January 2025 and January 2026. More than 700,000 children and young people now have an EHCP, marking the highest annual increase since the system was introduced over a decade ago.
Record Number of EHCPs
EHCPs are legal documents that outline the additional educational, health, and social care support a child is entitled to receive. Families can apply for these plans when a child needs more support than mainstream schools typically provide.
During 2025, authorities issued more than 110,000 new EHCPs. The figures cover children and young people up to the age of 25.
Despite the increase in support plans, councils continue to struggle with processing applications on time. Fewer than half of all EHCPs were issued within the required 20 week legal deadline.
Mainstream Schools Supporting More SEND Students
The latest figures also show a significant rise in the number of children with EHCPs attending mainstream schools.
Compared with last year, the number of students with EHCPs in mainstream education increased by more than 15%. Nearly half of all children and young people with an EHCP now attend mainstream schools.
The government recently announced plans to reform the SEND system. Officials want mainstream schools to become more inclusive and better equipped to support pupils with additional needs.
A spokesperson for the Department for Education said the figures highlight the scale of the challenges facing the education system. The department also confirmed plans to invest £4 billion to expand specialist support within mainstream schools.
According to the department, the goal is to help every child succeed while ensuring those with the most complex needs receive specialist assistance.
Families Continue to Face Challenges
For many families, securing support remains a lengthy and stressful process.
Karen Quinn is currently applying for an EHCP for her 11 year old son, Adam, who will begin secondary school in September.
Adam is autistic and also has ADHD and dyslexia. Although he performs well academically, he struggles with writing tasks and emotional regulation.
Karen says her son has faced difficulties at school and has received multiple suspensions. She believes obtaining an EHCP before the move to secondary education is essential to helping him succeed.
She also says families often spend years trying to access the support their children need. According to her, delays can take away valuable opportunities during a child’s early years.
Government Plans Further SEND Reforms
The sharp rise in EHCP numbers highlights the growing demand for SEND services across England.
Education leaders continue to call for faster assessments, increased funding, and improved support in schools. As demand rises, the government’s planned reforms will play a key role in determining how effectively schools can meet the needs of children with SEND in the years ahead.
