23/02/2026
The Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, has confirmed that the Schools White Paper will be published tomorrow. Setting out proposals for reforming the SEND system in England, alongside a public consultation.
We understand this news may feel unsettling. The most important thing to know right now is this:
1. The publication of the White Paper does NOT change existing SEND law.
2. Your child’s legal rights remain in place.
3. If you are told support has changed because of the White Paper, that is NOT correct.
A White Paper outlines the Government’s proposals for possible future changes to the law. It is the start of a process, not the end of one.
Once published, there will be a 12-week consultation, giving families, charities and professionals the chance to respond and influence what happens next.
We’ve created a dedicated webpage on the Schools White Paper and SEND reforms, which we will update regularly with:
💚 Our initial response to the Government’s proposals
💚 Clear explainers on each section of the consultation
💚 Details of consultation events
💚 Dates for Contact focus groups so families can help shape our submission
Even after consultation, any changes would still need to go through Parliament. Throughout this entire process, existing SEND law remains in place.
Working alongside other charities in the Disabled Children’s Partnership, we have been clear:
❗️Reform must strengthen support, not weaken it
❗️EHCPs must be safeguarded
❗️Rights must be protected
❗️Access to support must improve
❗️Families deserve a system that works without having to fight for it
Find our dedicated webpage here: https://contact.org.uk/help-for-families/information-advice-services/education-learning/the-schools-white-paper-education-reforms/
