TreeHouse hopes Lamb Inquiry will pave the way for much needed changes in the SEN system

TreeHouse welcomes today’s release of the final report from the Lamb Inquiry and hopes that it will pave the way for much needed changes in the Special Education Needs (SEN) system.

The Inquiry, led by Brian Lamb OBE, set out to improve parental confidence in the SEN system and, as the national charity for autism education, TreeHouse was involved throughout and provided evidence from parents of children with autism who are not getting the support they need in order to fulfill their potential.

At TreeHouse’s Annual Lecture which took place last month to discuss the Lamb Inquiry, Brian Lamb said: “Children with autism are a test to the SEN system as they present some of the biggest challenges. But this is no excuse - schools and local authorities need to be meeting these challenges. If the system is failing children with autism, then the system isn’t working and needs to be changed.”

Jolanta Lasota, TreeHouse Chief Executive, said: “Parental confidence is about the quality of provision for their child. Far too many parents are telling us that they are having to fight their way through every stage of the SEN system – from diagnosis to educational provision.

“We are pleased that this thorough review into the SEN system has been conducted and are now keen on hearing the Government’s response. We are also looking forward to working with all parties involved to implement the necessary changes.

“What we need is a focus on outcomes with quality provision geared at children’s individual needs, preparing them for life in the wider world. Achieving this is not only about changes to structures and resources, but a culture change – one that begins with better understanding of the needs of children with autism and better understanding of the interventions that enable children to thrive.”