Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what assessment his Department has made of the potential financial and emotional impact on parents and children of delays within the HM Courts & Tribunals Service affecting Special Educational Need and Disability appeals.

Reducing waiting times in the SEND tribunal is a priority.

His Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) is working with the judiciary to improve case progression and earlier resolution. The Government fully recognises that prolonged proceedings can place practical and emotional strain on children and parents by extending uncertainty about a child or young person’s assessment, provision or placement. The Department for Education has consulted on proposals to improve early identification of need to ensure that children and young people get the support they need when they need it, including strengthening local mediation services to resolve disputes earlier. It is currently considering responses before setting out its final proposals.