Adam Dance MP slams Government delay to SEND reforms as “an absolute betrayal”

Liberal Democrat MP for Yeovil, Adam Dance, has criticised the Government’s decision to delay publishing its long-promised Schools White Paper — which includes reforms to the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system — until 2026.

Adam, who has severe dyslexia and has campaigned in Parliament for better SEND support, said the delay shows a “total lack of urgency” from ministers and will leave thousands of families across Somerset and beyond in limbo.

Earlier this year, Adam introduced his first ever Ten Minute Rule Bill, calling for universal screening for primary school-aged children, and mandatory teacher training on neurodivergence — measures that would help identify children’s needs earlier and reduce the strain on the SEND system.

Adam Dance MP said:

“This delay is an absolute betrayal of every child with special educational needs and disabilities, and every parent who has spent years battling a broken system.

Families in Somerset are exhausted. I hear from parents whose children are waiting months or even years for an Education, Health and Care Plan, and from schools struggling to provide the support those pupils deserve.

To push these reforms back yet again, after so many promises, shows a total lack of urgency and understanding from this Government. Children can’t wait until 2026. They need action now.”

Adam added:

“I will continue to press the Government to act, to listen to families and professionals, and to deliver proper reform that puts children at the centre. The Liberal Democrats have already set out our plan to fix the SEND system — early identification, fair funding, shorter waiting times and proper accountability. The Government should be working with us, not kicking this issue into the long grass.”