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SEND in Telford and Wrekin

I want to speak openly about a troubling issue that affects some of our most vulnerable children and their families.

Recently, Telford & Wrekin Council was found to have failed a young girl, Y, who relies on essential speech, language, and occupational therapy. Despite her having an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHC Plan) — which is meant to guarantee her the support she needs — she was left waiting for over a year. That’s simply not acceptable.

What’s most concerning is that this isn’t just about one case. It’s part of a broader pattern where families feel let down, where promises made in support plans are not kept, and where children’s development and well-being suffer as a result. The Ombudsman’s investigation confirmed that the council failed to check whether therapy was happening or when it would start. Because of that, Y missed out on vital services from May 2023 to August 2024 — a full year of missed opportunities for her growth and confidence.

The council has now acknowledged its fault, apologised publicly, and agreed to pay a symbolic £3000 to Mrs. X, (although we can find no evidence of the public apology, and it's certainly not referred to the councils Newsroom)

They’ve also promised to improve their procedures. But let’s be honest — talk and apologies are just the start. We need real, tangible change. Our children with disabilities and their families deserve more than just promises; they deserve timely, consistent support that helps them reach their potential.

This case highlights a troubling pattern. Between 2018 and 2023, at the time of writing the Ombudsman received 107 complaints, nearly 30 about SEND support in our borough. Many families are still waiting for the help they need or are facing delays, inadequate assessments, or worse — services that simply aren’t delivered at all.

Why does this matter? Because every child with special educational needs should have an equal chance to thrive. When local authorities fall short, it’s children and families who pay the price. It’s a failure of the system — a system that, frankly, isn’t working well enough for the families who rely on it most.

The recent findings and the Council’s inadequate response should be a wake-up call. We need to hold our local authority to account. It’s not enough to pay lip service to children’s rights. We must demand that every child receives the support outlined in their plans — on time, every time.

Families like Mrs. X’s shouldn’t have to fight for basic services that are their child’s right. Our children with disabilities, their families, and their futures deserve better. It’s time for genuine change, for proper oversight, and for a commitment to making sure no child falls through the cracks again.

We in the Green Party will continue to advocate for a fairer, more inclusive Telford and Wrekin — because our children’s futures depend on it.


Mark Webster

Disabilty Officer

The Green Party

(Telford and Wrekin)


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