Council apologises for SEND communication failings

Nigel Minns said communications over the training could have been clearer

A council has apologised for communication issues over changes to mandatory training for councillors around children with special educational needs.

Nigel Minns, Warwickshire County Council's executive director for children and young people, acknowledged that, while the training had been produced with help from families involved, the language used in communications might have led councillors to believe otherwise.

The new Reform UK administration was not involved in the changes, which began before the May elections.

County councillors unanimously committed to annual training in the wake of a public storm over comments made by three councillors during a scrutiny meeting.

However in June 2025, concerns were raised when the in-person, co-produced sessions appeared to be replaced with online modules.

A council communication on 2 June described the online training as "mandatory," with extra sessions "offered" to relevant councillors.

This led to confusion, with several councillors believing the online course was the only requirement.

Mr Minns later clarified that co-produced training remains mandatory for cabinet and committee members - and open to all councillors.

The officer denied any intent to drop co-produced training, admitting the communication could have been clearer.

"It is unfortunate that our communication with councillors wasn't clearer and I am happy to accept responsibility for that," he said.

Asked whether he would go as far as to apologise, he added: "I am sorry if we gave the impression that the training wasn't going to take place and certainly, if that has caused an erosion of trust then I am sorry about that."

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.