Purpose

Wolverhampton's local area response and readiness for the new SEND reforms.

Decision

1. That the All Means All - Wolverhampton's Local Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Reform Plan, which sets out the local area partnership’s approach to delivering SEND reform over 2026–2029 be approved, and implementation activity as outlined in the report be authorised.
2. That it be approved, the Council to receive approximately £2,517,796 from the Department for Education (DfE) through the ‘Experts at Hand & Local Authority SEND Transformation Fund 2026/27’, and it be noted that this is a provisional funding allocation subject to final confirmation, and authority be delegate authority to execute the associated legal agreement with the DfE in line with the Council’s Finance Procedure Rules.
3. That authority be delegated to the Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, in consultation with the Executive Director of Families to:

i.        Consider external service delivery for Expert at Hands Delivery (staffing) for the value of £507,003 subject to a further Individual Executive Decision Notice being completed in line the Council’s governance processes. 

ii.       Agree amendments to the All Means All - Wolverhampton's Local SEND Reform Plan (such as formatting or clarifications) based on partner feedback or national guidance.

iii.     Agree and manage the annual delivery plan, governance, program management, and performance reporting for implementation in relation to the All Means All - Wolverhampton's Local SEND Reform Plan.

iv.     Agree decisions on the allocation and management of associated grant funding, ensuring investment is aligned with national guidance and funding eligibility.

1. That it be noted, the plan would be delivered alongside statutory SEND duties, with activity phased to ensure core services remain stable.