The Office of National Statistics has just published their report on special educational needs based on data from the 2024/2025 academic year.
In England, the number of children identified with special educational needs (SEN) continues to rise significantly. The figures reveal that over 1.7 million pupils are now recognised as having SEN, an increase of 93,700 pupils – or 5.6% – since 2024. This includes children supported through both Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans and those receiving SEN support without a formal plan.
The number of pupils with an EHC plan has risen to 482,640, representing 5.3% of all pupils in schools across England. This is up from 4.8% in 2024. EHC plans are vital documents designed to provide a legally enforceable framework of support tailored to meet a child’s individual needs. At the same time, the number of pupils receiving SEN support without an EHC plan has increased to 1,284,284, now representing 14.2% of the school population – an increase from 13.6% the previous year.
These statistics paint a clear picture: more children than ever require additional help in school, and the pressure on educational settings to deliver appropriate support is growing. Despite this, many parents still face challenges in ensuring their children receive the assistance they are legally entitled to. Whether it is securing an EHC plan, navigating complex application processes, or challenging inadequate provision, the system can be overwhelming without proper guidance.
Local Authorities are being asked to fund this significant increase in support without being given an equivalently increased pot of money to be able to do so and as a result more families find themselves in a situation where they need and should be entitled to support that they are being denied.
This is why it is essential for parents to seek the right legal advice when they encounter difficulties in accessing education support for their child. Understanding their rights and the legal obligations of schools and local authorities is key to securing the necessary provision.
According to the recently published data, the most common type of need for pupils with an EHC plan is autistic spectrum disorder, while those on SEN support often have speech, language, and communication difficulties – areas that require specialist interventions which are too often under-provided or delayed.
How we can help
Legal professionals who specialise in education law can help families advocate effectively, hold authorities to account, and ensure that children’s educational needs are met in line with statutory requirements. As the number of children with SEN continues to rise, the importance of informed, proactive legal support cannot be overstated.
The Enable Law Education team is led by Sarah Palmer. Sarah and the team have successfully helped hundreds of families get the provision they are entitled to and enable their children to reach their maximum educational potential. If you are finding yourself needing guidance, our specialist team can help you. Call us for free on 0800 044 8488 or fill in our contact form so we can call you back at a time convenient for you.
