Children's SEND services need improvement - Ofsted

Ofsted said there were inconsistent outcomes in Milton Keynes

Services for children with special educational needs in Milton Keynes need improving, according to Ofsted.

The watchdog published a report following a five-day inspection of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) services, which are jointly provided by Milton Keynes City Council and the NHS Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board.

The inspectors also highlighted areas where the services were effective.

Joe Hearnshaw, the council's Labour cabinet member for children and young people, said "we'll build on the strengths identified in the report".

"We’re committed to improving how children with SEND and their families receive the right support," he said.

The Ofsted inspection found "the local area partnership’s arrangements lead to inconsistent experiences and outcomes".

Among the five areas listed for improvement was a request for the group to "strengthen multi-agency working between education, health and social care" to ensure children's needs were met efficiently.

The report also said: "Leaders are ambitious for children and young people with SEND and act with a strong moral imperative."