Steve Darling: Fair funding and opportunities for Torbay’s next generation

On Monday this week, the Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, pledged £4 billion to transform the provision of special educational needs and disabilities support in England. 

The government’s plan is to improve the SEND offering in mainstream schools, whilst keeping specialist schools alive for those who need them. 

There are some concerns about this level of funding, as the general secretary of the teachers’ trade union, Matt Wrack, announced that it was ridiculous to think that this amount of money could update the system.

Additionally, we are aware that children with less complex needs will now have their education, health and care plans reviewed. 

I’m anxious that this might be another attempt by the government to cut costs by targeting those who genuinely need government help, such as personal independence payments (PIP) which support disabled people and those with mental health conditions. 

As with PIP, I will continue to hold the government to account not to take away vital services from those who need it most. PIP gives those with disabilities agency over their own lives, and supports them with getting back into work.

I am pleased to see that the government is channelling much needed funds into the SEND system, as I campaigned (along with the F40 Campaign) for increased funding for mainstream schools to deliver SEND support; however, the government must now ensure that the national funding formulae is updated, so that there is fair distribution of school and SEND funding. 

As a visually impaired person, I personally understand the barriers faced by children in special schools and those with additional needs. 

We must provide inclusion, early intervention and strong support in the early years, and it is so important that this is properly resourced. I will be following the government’s SEND measures closely and challenging any measures which might retract the support that our children need. 

I see one of the most important parts of my role as an MP as to listen to the younger generation in Torbay and ensure that I respond to their concerns. 

At Hayes School last week I spoke with students on the school council and listened to their concerns about supporting mental health in schools, and about cars speeding on Hayes Road. 

I was particularly impressed by their designated ‘gate buddies scheme’ to help support students’ mental health, and I am now working with civil enforcement officers to see if a 20mph zone outside the school would make sense. 

Considering how challenging the job market is for young people at the moment, (unemployment is at 5.2 per cent, the highest level in almost half a decade), it is vital for the younger generation to gain important skills and experience of work in the hospitality Industry. 

At McDonald’s at Bridge Retail Park last week, I discussed the organisational skills and discipline that young people gain from working there with Andy Devon and Gregg Fox. 

It is easier for young people to apply for more jobs later down the line if they already have that experience of work through the hospitality industry and this is one of the reasons why I am constantly campaigning on behalf of this sector.

I will continue to work hard to support our children and young people in education and in work. 

As always, if you need assistance or would like to share your thoughts, please get in touch. You can reach me at steve.darling.mp@parliament.uk or on 07908 349347. For regular updates, sign up to my weekly e-newsletter at www.torbaylibdems.org.uk/newsletter