Recommendation 87

The allocation of £740 million in high needs capital funding for 2025–26 is a welcome investment and reflects a growing recognition of the urgent need to expand and improve SEND provision. However, this funding should be seen as a starting point rather than a solution. One-off or short-term funding cycles make it difficult for local authorities and providers to plan, commission, and deliver the specialist and inclusive provision needed to meet rising need. We have heard consistent evidence highlighting the need for longer-term, multi-year funding settlements to support more strategic and sustainable planning at the local level. (Conclusion, Paragraph 310) 174