Purpose

The Department for Education has requested that Local Authorities submit a SEND Reform Plan by 19 June 2026. This is part of the national education reforms. This report and Appendix 'A' (the draft plan) detail Lancashire's plans to make the school system more inclusive and the plan requires Cabinet approval prior to final submission. As requested by the Department for Education, this draft has been submitted to advisors for initial feedback to assist with ensuring compliance before final submission. Feedback will be provided by the Department for Education by 8 June so that any amendments can be made.

This is deemed to be a Key Decision and the requirements of the council's Cabinet procedure rules (Standing Order C20, Consideration of Key Decisions) have been complied with. Compliance with Standing Orders C18 and C19 was not possible due to the Department for Education timelines and the availability of the information.

Decision

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.