SEND reforms must recognise 'key role' of school support staff

GMB London Region has today [23 February] reacted to the Government’s announcement it will invest billions of pounds on special education needs and disabilities (SEND) support for schools in England.

The union has raised concerns that school support staff, who play a key role in meeting the needs of SEND children, have been missing from the conversation about SEND provision.

Lisa Bangs, GMB Senior Organiser, said:

“Additional funding for SEND provision is very welcome, but the Government’s plans must recognise those staff at the forefront of meeting the needs of SEND pupils: school support staff.

“We know there are increasing numbers of SEND pupils in London and yet there is a lack of training and recognition for the staff working with those pupils.”

“Recruiting and retaining skilled and dedicated support staff requires ensuring they are valued, trained, and paid properly.

“The failure to do this means some areas are struggling to retain experienced staff.

“We have consistently called for job descriptions to be updated to reflect the responsibility support staff have for SEND provision and for recognition of their valuable work through the payment of SEND allowances.”