Specialist Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
16-25 Transitions

Following issues raised by a number of Councils, and updated guidance by central Government[1], Beaufort Nine Ltd is leading on a Programme with IESE to develop some benchmark costs and a standard approach to review placements in Specialist Post-16 Institutions (including residential) using digital tools built on the CareCubed platform.

It is evident from the new guidance that there will be increased pressure on Local Authorities to ensure that placements are appropriate for the individual and that commissioned support is holistic, with transparent, joined-up working within the local area. Inspectors will also take into account that the local authority evaluate and improve services and may consider the oversight and commissioning of residential special schools and colleges, including those placed out of area.  “Inspectors may evaluate how effectively the local area partnership is ensuring that these children and young people are being safeguarded, having positive experiences and achieving strong outcomes”.

The recent reports of Safeguarding failures within the dual registered children’s home/residential special schools and colleges have brought into focus, again, the vulnerabilities of young people who are most at risk when placed out of borough and in residential placements. Whilst much has been done in this arena, recent high-profile cases have reiterated the continued importance of the Local Authority to ensure their commissioning arrangements are robust and that diligent oversight of individual placements are carried out.

The judgements places an importance on the outcomes and experiences for children and young people. The guidance outlines some of these outcomes to include “health and well-being, communication, independence, positive relationships, community participation, and moving into further and higher education and/or employment.”

Additionally, the end of last Year Ofsted and CQC published their new framework for Area SEND Inspections. The inspections continue to evaluate how the local authority jointly plan, evaluate and develop services for children and young people with SEND. Whilst the focus is on provision within the local area this does include children and young people placed outside the local area.

The new guidance places significant emphasis on the quality of reviewing, planning and outcomes.  Beaufort Nine Ltd is offering independent, bespoke support to Local Authorities and Providers alongside the IESE Programme or independently (assuming no conflict of interest).

[1] SEND review: right support, right place, right time - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)