Oliver recently met with the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) service following an inspection report on the Hertfordshire area partnership.

In November an inspection report published by Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission found ‘widespread and/or systemic failings’ in the provision of SEND services in Hertfordshire.

Following these findings, Oliver received an insightful update of the SEND improvement by Leader of Hertfordshire County Council, Richard Roberts; Executive Member for Education, Libraries and Lifelong Learning, Councillor Caroline Clapper; Executive Director of Children’s Services at Hertfordshire County Council, Jo Fisher; and Director of inclusion and skills, Hero Slinn.

The SEND Improvement Plan details priority actions and how to achieve them. This included priority actions of improving the way SEND data and information is shared across organisations and leaders from all organisations working together better.

The timeframe for the plan to be implemented is around 18 months, as SEND service are expected to be reinspected in summer 2025.

Oliver said: ‘The recent SEND service inspection findings were disappointing. Sadly I’m sure they will not surprise users. 

‘I recently met with Executive Members of Hertfordshire County Council to discuss the findings of the report and what steps are being taken to urgently improve these services.

‘I was pleased to receive an update on the SEND Improvement Plan and to hear about the actions that are already being put in place.

‘Problems have been recognised and are already being addressed, and I am confident that the Improvement Plan demonstrates the Council’s commitment in delivering the extra needs and support for SEND services.’