Special needs children in Somerset are facing significant challenges due to a substantial backlog in Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) assessments as they transition from primary to secondary education. This phase transfer process is crucial to ensure these children receive uninterrupted and appropriate support throughout their schooling.
Councillor Diogo Rodrigues, leader of the Conservative opposition on Somerset Council, highlighted that many pupils are moving schools without timely and adequate transition arrangements. “The backlog of initial EHCP needs assessments in Somerset is dreadful and far worse than in neighbouring areas,” Rodrigues stated during a recent council executive committee meeting. He stressed the urgency for clear data on the number of EHCP transfer reviews completed on time over the past three years, the extent of delays, and outstanding cases.
The council acknowledged a decline in assessment performance over the past year but emphasized ongoing efforts to manage increasing demand. Councillor Heather Shearer, portfolio holder for children, families, and education, admitted fewer phase transfers were completed within deadlines during recent financial years. However, she assured that some transfers are being completed more quickly despite the overall increase in outstanding cases.
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Shearer revealed that EHCP transfer reviews for Year 11 and post-16 students have risen incrementally over the last three years. While timely completion remained stable in 2023/24 and 2024/25, 2025/26 saw a drop in performance and a rise in outstanding transfers. Recognizing the importance of meeting statutory deadlines, the council is implementing urgent measures to address staffing capacity and growing demand.
Among these actions is the expansion of SEND provision within mainstream schools, including additional SEND units planned at Court Fields School in Wellington, and the growth of specialist schools across Somerset. Councillor Rodrigues is expected to receive a detailed statistical breakdown of completed and pending EHCP phase transfer reviews for the last three academic years shortly.