A PUBLIC consultation is now underway on proposed changes to special educational needs and disabilities provision (SEND).

Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet agreed for the plans to go out to consultation last week after agreeing that the current model is “unsustainable”.

The consultation will run from October 17 to November 28.

The new strategy aims to create a clearer high needs funding model and will see children’s special educational needs reviewed on an annual basis, rather than schools being given a lump sum to allocate accordingly.

In recent years there has been an annual overspend in the area and it is hoped that savings could be made by making special needs provision more targeted.

Councillor Cyndi Hughes, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “I believe these changes will help us continue to give children and young people with SEND the best support and the greatest chance of success.

“SEND needs and funding are challenges that councils across the country are wrestling with. These proposals will give parents more of a say in the support their child receives.

“We will be consulting widely with families, schools and other professionals, in a range of ways - there will be the chance to comment online and attend one of a number of consultation events.”

Anyone wanting to give feedback on the consultation is asked to do so through the council’s online surveys and attending consultation events. For more information, visit www.Darlington.gov.uk/SEND.