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- Local Government Newsletter | Volume 58
Local Government Newsletter | Volume 58
Plus: Blunkett urges sensitivity on SEND reform💬
Rafe Houston
July 10, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes
Local Government Updates
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In the Headlines🔍
You might have caught it on the BBC Today programme earlier this week, that the government is reportedly exploring significant changes to EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans), including potential limits on access.
Rather than reducing access, this should be an opportunity to reform the system and build the support children need earlier. Have a listen from 2:36:45 onwards: Today - 07/07/2025 - BBC Sounds
We spoke to the SEND team at Agilisys, as they work to introduce AI to the EHCP drafting space, and they shared some thoughts on where the government's energy should go instead:
🔁 Reform EHCPs, do not remove them
Focus on improving the quality, consistency, and speed of EHCPs across the country.
🏫 Strengthen early, non-statutory support in mainstream schools
Provide schools with the training, resources, and capacity to support children from the very first signs of need.
👨👩👦 Co-develop solutions with families and young people
Ensure reforms are shaped by those with lived experience—not designed around them.
Keen to learn more about what Agilisys is doing in this space? Or how their AI tool is transforming how EHCPs are drafted in over 35+ Local Authorities? Check their dedicated EHCP page here: Agilisys EHCP Tool | Agilisys
Quick Reads📖
LOCAL GOVERNMENT FUNDING
London faces potential council tax increases or service cuts as reforms redirect funding to deprived areas and rural districts. Eight boroughs risk a financial shortfall, with estimated impacts over three years forcing consideration of tax rises or service reductions to address a £82.7 million deficit.
SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS
David Blunkett stresses the importance of handling changes to England’s special educational needs (SEND) system with sensitivity, emphasising reassurance for parents about the future of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). This is crucial as EHCPs provide essential support for over 600,000 young people, and without careful reform, confidence in the SEND system might further erode. |  The Guardian |
DIGITAL CREDENTIALS
The UK government aims to digitise all central government credentials, including driving licences and National Insurance details, by 2027. Using the GOV.UK Wallet, a secure digital platform, citizens will store and access these electronic documents on their smartphones. This initiative aims for enhanced accessibility and convenience in proving identity and eligibility for services.
SOCIAL CARE REFORM
The report emphasises the urgent need for reform in England's adult social care system, highlighting significant funding increases and policy adjustments aimed at improving independence and productivity. Key issues include unmet care needs, care quality, and workforce pay. Baroness Casey's independent commission will address these challenges, aiming for sustainable solutions by 2029. |  |
SOCIAL CARE REFORM
SCIE's recent report emphasises the urgent need for leadership and investment in adult social care, particularly focusing on innovation to support unpaid carers. Over 70% of funded projects address unpaid carers' unmet needs, demanding immediate reform and policy integration. SCIE advocates embedding innovation in the National Care Service framework.