Adam Dance MP backs move to protect SEND services from offshore profiteering

Adam Dance MP has backed calls to classify SEND services as “Critical National Infrastructure” to stop offshore private equity firms making large profits from support meant for vulnerable children.

The proposal comes as the Government publishes its SEND White Paper this week. Giving SEND provision Critical National Infrastructure status, currently used for services like water and energy, would give ministers stronger powers to examine and block takeovers that are not in the best interests of children.

Across the country, the cost of private SEND provision has risen sharply in recent years, putting huge pressure on councils. Nationally, high needs spending has exceeded available funding by hundreds of millions of pounds each year, leaving many councils with large SEND deficits.

In Somerset, as in many rural counties, councils are struggling financially while families continue to fight for the support their children need.

Adam Dance MP said:

“It is wrong that while parents in Yeovil are fighting for assessments and basic support, some private equity backed providers are making excessive profits from the system.

“Children with SEND are not a business opportunity. Public money should go into classrooms, specialist staff, and therapies, not into offshore companies.

“That is why I support classifying SEND services as critical national infrastructure. It would give the Government the power to step in where takeovers are not in the public interest and make sure children come first.”

Adam has also been pressing ministers on early identification and dyslexia screening through Parliamentary Written Questions, following concerns raised in a recent report by the British Dyslexia Association. He has called for clearer guidance, stronger accountability, and better use of funding.

He added:

“The SEND system is failing too many families. Reform must put children first, protect legal rights, invest in early identification, and expand specialist capacity.

“We must also tackle profiteering. Capping excessive profits and strengthening oversight are essential if we are serious about rebuilding trust and making sure funding reaches the children who need it.”

Adam said he will continue working with families, schools, and Somerset Council to push for a SEND system that is fair, transparent, and focused on better outcomes for children.