Steve Darling MP Launches Spotlight Report on Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Provision in Torbay
Steve Darling MP Launches Spotlight Report on Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Provision in Torbay
Torbay, 13 June 2025 – Steve Darling MP has today launched his Spotlight Report on Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) provision in Torbay, presenting a detailed, evidence-based evaluation of how well the needs of children and young people with SEND are being met across the Bay.
Following the findings of the 2021 joint Ofsted-CQC inspection of Torbay’s SEND services, this report sets out to assess progress, highlight ongoing concerns, and propose a path forward. Drawing on testimony from local families, educators, service providers, and national policy experts, the report delivers a stark message: while there have been structural improvements, too many children with SEND in Torbay are still being failed.
“This report has been driven by the voices of constituents, families and professionals, who feel left behind by a system that too often lacks accountability, consistency, and funding,” said Steve Darling MP. “SEND services in Torbay remain under immense pressure, and without meaningful reform and sustainable investment, the cycle of disadvantage for our most vulnerable children will continue.”
The report offers an in-depth analysis of Torbay’s current SEND local offer, recent government policy, and Liberal Democrat proposals for reform.
Key Findings:
- Despite some positive changes, such as the creation of Family Hubs, a new Graduated Response framework, and improved engagement with parents, critical gaps remain in EHCP delivery, inclusion in mainstream schools, mental health support, and specialist placements.
- Families report long delays, under-resourced services, and inadequate communication from local authorities.
- Data highlights that Torbay continues to lag in key indicators such as EHCP compliance, early identification, and pupil exclusions.
Policy Recommendations:
To address these challenges, the report outlines 11 key policy recommendations, including:
- Creation of a national SEND body to ensure fair standards across the UK
- Sustainable, needs-based funding for local authorities like Torbay
- Retention of a pupil-led funding model to keep support tailored to individuals
- Stronger early intervention, inclusive education, and accountability for exclusions
- Expansion of mental health services and improved co-production with families
- National oversight for home-educated children with EHCPs to safeguard entitlements.
“This is not just a local issue. It is a national crisis with deeply personal consequences,” said Darling. “Torbay deserves better, and this report is a call to action for policymakers, professionals, and the community to come together and ensure every child with SEND can thrive.”
You can read the report here: https://www.torbaylibdems.org.uk/fileadmin/groups/36/Documents/Torbay_SEND_spotlight_report.pdf