Richard Tice Suggests Converting Churches into Special Needs Schools Amid SEND Crisis
## Reform UK's Richard Tice Proposes Conversion of Churches into Special Needs Schools
### Tice Critiques Current State of SEND Provisions
Richard Tice, leader of Reform UK, has called for a radical reform of the current Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system by suggesting that churches be repurposed to serve as special needs schools. Tice's remarks highlight a growing discontent with governmental handling of SEND provisions, which he argues are facing significant challenges and inefficiencies.
According to Tice, the current situation indicates a "course for total collapse" in the SEND department. He emphasizes that the difficulties faced stem from a chronic lack of resources and a mounting financial crisis within local councils. The County Councils Network has flagged that cumulative deficits are "projected to hit a staggering £18 billion by the end of this parliament." This dire situation has led to necessary funds being "withdrawn from children in the mainstream school system in order to support overspending for SEND – with an estimated £150 million being transferred in the last financial year."
Tice's proposal aims to address these systemic issues by utilizing existing resources in churches that could alleviate the pressure on current educational institutions overwhelmed by SEND demands. The response from educational authorities and community leaders about this approach remains to be seen, but it draws attention to the urgent need for sustainable solutions in addressing SEND requirements across the country.