Campaigning by the National Autistic Society has recently led to two amendments to the Education Bill which is currently going through Parliament, which will both mean a better deal for children and young people with special educational needs. One amendment will mean that schools will be required to co-operate with other services to make sure children’s needs are prioritised. The other relates to direct payments and aims to make sure that local authorities do not neglect their statutory duties in providing the services outlined in the child’s statement if the family accepts a direct payment.
The House of Lords is considering the amendments to the Bill this week - this is the final stage before the Bill is passed and given Royal Assent. Full information on the status of the Bill can be seen here.
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