The Schools White Paper Delayed Until 2026: What It Means.

The long-awaited schools white paper, which includes the government’s major reforms to the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system, has now been delayed until early 2026. It was originally due to be published in autumn 2025.

Why the delay?

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has said the Department for Education (DfE) wants to take more time to “listen and get it right.” The government plans to hold more engagement sessions with parents, schools, and experts before finalising the proposals. A new period of “co-creation” will take place over the coming months, led by the new SEND Minister Georgia Gould.

While the government claims the decision aims to ensure reforms are grounded in real experiences, many families and local authorities have expressed frustration. The current SEND system is under intense strain, with growing financial pressures and long waiting times for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).

What will the white paper cover?

Although full details are yet to be confirmed, the white paper is expected to set out changes to:

• EHCP processes and timelines

• SEND funding and local authority responsibilities

• Accountability for education, health and care services

• Support for inclusion in mainstream schools

• Specialist place planning and provision

The Department for Education has already outlined five guiding principles for the reforms:

1. Early support should be provided as soon as needs are identified, to prevent escalation.

2. Local children should be able to learn close to home wherever possible, with special schools remaining vital for those with

complex needs.

3. Mainstream schools should be properly resourced to meet common needs without families having to battle for help.

4. Decisions should be based on evidence and best practice that delivers positive long-term outcomes.

5. Education, health, and care services should work in genuine partnership with families and each other.

What does the delay mean?

For families, the delay unfortunately extends the period of uncertainty about what the future system will look like. Parents still face navigating the current system, which many describe as inconsistent and exhausting.

For schools and local authorities, it means operating under the existing framework for longer, even as demand and costs continue to rise. The Local Government Association called the delay “disappointing” and urged ministers to act quickly to relieve financial and capacity pressures.

What happens next?

The DfE has promised regional listening events and ongoing discussions with family and sector groups before the white paper is finalised. The document is now expected to be published in early 2026, followed by a period of consultation before implementation.

What can we do in the meantime?

At SEND Meadow, although the delay is frustrating, we need to use this time to prepare, reflect, and strengthen local understanding of what is and isn’t working in the current system.

Families can use this time to:

• Keep informed about upcoming consultation opportunities

• Document challenges and successes in their current EHCP journey

• Engage with local parent forums and advisory services

• Keep an eye on what your local MP is doing. Several MPs have recently invited parents and carers to share their experiences of the SEND system, which is a valuable chance to have your voice heard

Schools and providers can review their inclusion practices, ensure they are compliant with current law, and plan for flexibility once reforms arrive.

In summary

The white paper delay is frustrating, but it also hopefully gives space to get reform right. The government says it wants to build a fairer, more consistent, and more collaborative system. The extra time should be used wisely by policymakers to listen to ensure that the new system is beneficial to families and does not strip them of their current rights.

At SEND Meadow, we’ll continue to follow developments closely and share updates as they happen.

If you’d like advice on navigating the current SEND system or understanding how future reforms might affect your family, please get in touch.