Over recent years, there has been a growing awareness – among both the public and policymakers – of concerns about the adequacy of early years funding in England.
At the same time, there has been an increasing focus on SEND provision and funding across the country; however, that focus has primarily been on children of formal school age and above.
In September 2019, the government launched a review into support for children with SEND. However, it is notable that the initial aims of this review included “equip[ping] staff in schools and colleges to respond effectively to [families’] needs,” with little mention of the early years.
Our Too Little, Too Late report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the key issues around funding for SEND provision in the early years sector, and to highlight the need for greater government support at this early stage of children’s educational journeys.
Our online survey, conducted between 31 January and 10 February 2022, received 1,331 responses.
