Jan 23, 2025, MSN: Essex council could face massive costs over special education needs funding funding
SE England
Essex County Council says it is pressing the Government to resolve special education needs funding as a “matter of urgency” because it could face significantly increased costs. The 2025/26 High Needs Block deficit is forecast to be £30.3 million [$38M], but this could rise to £243 million [$308M] by 2028/29.
"This is where residents of Essex can be really sure that we are here to fight their corner and we are taking that to government, and it is not just in this area. It is not just SEND; it surrounds the whole picture of children's services and social care.
"We have to make sure that the government understands the pressures that we are living under, and they are really significant, and it's a growing problem."
"If the statutory override is not extended by the government past March 2026", he said, “we will meet the challenge.”
He added: "I am confident that the government will listen. This is a major national issue. It's not just here in Essex; it's a nationwide issue, and government needs to listen to professionals who are saying this needs to be addressed. I don't believe any government would want to let down the most vulnerable."
The council is proposing a 3.75 per cent council tax increase for 2025/26. This would be a 1.75 per cent general increase and two per cent increase in the adult social care precept. For an average Band D property, it would mean an increase in the county council element of Council Tax of £1.09 [$1.38] a week.
"It’s not just about the here and now, we have a responsibility to plan for the long-term. This has given us the opportunity to look at how services are currently delivered and where we can be innovative and more efficient.
“I am proud that we have once again been able to present a balanced budget for next year and hope that residents feel reassured that we are listening and by our strong track record in achieving good value for money. We never forget it’s tax-payer’s money we’re spending and every pound is accounted for and allocated.”
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