The City of Wolverhampton Council is urging parents, carers, education staff, and professionals across the city to take part in the Department for Education’s ‘national conversation’ on special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) reforms.
The Government will publish the Schools White Paper later this year, setting out plans to improve SEND support and ensure every child and young person can thrive. Ahead of this, it is running a series of events across England and online, open to everyone with a stake in building a better SEND system.
It is not a formal consultation, rather an open conversation designed to explore ideas raised by organisations and communities. A public consultation will follow alongside the publication of the White Paper.
People can share their views via the online conversation by visiting SEND reform national conversation, which closes next Wednesday (14 January, 2026), or by joining the final in a series of online events with Schools Minister Georgia Gould, which also takes place next Wednesday.
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “We know how vital SEND services are to families in Wolverhampton, and it’s essential that local voices are heard in shaping national reforms.
“Any national changes will directly affect how SEND is delivered locally. That’s why your voice counts. We encourage as many families, carers, and professionals as possible to take part in this important discussion and help influence the future of SEND provision, ensuring every child and young person has the opportunity to thrive.”