Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of enabling young people with special educational needs and disabilities to participate in further education through a student loan, including further education in a residential setting.

When deciding on the provision to be made for a particular young person with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), schools, colleges and local authorities must have regard to the SEND Code of Practice. If a young person has an education, health and care plan (EHCP), this should set out exactly what support they should be receiving.

EHCPs must be produced by the local authority in partnership with young people and their parents or carers, and have a clear focus on outcomes, including the support a young person will need to achieve them. Emphasis is also placed on making a positive transition to adulthood, which includes preparation for employment, independent living and, participation in society, including having friends and supportive relationships.

The department does not make assessments of the merits of specific types of provision for individuals. It is up to the local authority to decide, in consultation with parents and the young person, what the best provision for an individual young person would be. This may include specialist residential provision, based on the young person’s circumstances and SEND. The local authority must secure the provision specified in the EHCP, providing the necessary funding, including for residential costs where appropriate.