With the publication of the Schools White Paper 2026: Every Child Achieving and Thriving, and the Government consultation on SEND reform Putting Children and Young People First, it is clear that change is once again coming to SEND.
On 5 May 2026, NatSIP held an online discussion event for partners and members. The implications for children and young people with sensory impairment are beginning to emerge and we wanted the opportunity to hold a sector discussion.
70 delegates heard from DfE and sector speakers from BATOD, Guide Dogs, NDCS, RNIB, Thomas Pocklington Trust, and VIEW, each of whom reflected on the the proposals in the Schools White Paper and gave feedback from from their own events.
In addition, delegates and NatSIP colleagues shared key messages for responding to the SEND consultation and how the interpretation of the government proposals might influence future educational provision for learners who are deaf/HI, deafblind/MSI and with vision impairment.
Below are the presentations from speakers who shared slides and were able to make them available. In addition, NatSIP has produced a briefing note summarising issues raised during the event, and the main themes and concerns that emerged.
Available documents:
document Brian Lamb's Presentation
document Jane Sharp's Presentation