Local authorities must ensure sufficient school places and secure provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The Children and Families Act 2014 places specific statutory responsibilities on local authorities for supporting children and young people with SEND.
In July 2017 the Department for Education (DfE) announced capital funding to support additional or improved provision for children and young people with SEND aged 0 to 25: the Special Provision Capital Fund (SPCF). Oldham’s SPCF allocation totals £500 000 over the three financial years 2018/19 to 2020/2021 (i.e. three allocations of £166 666).
In order to access the funding, the local authority is required to publish a Plan, following consultation with parents, carers, and providers, which sets out how the SPCF will be used. Consultation has been undertaken with all providers in Oldham and the local parent/carer forum.