Understand
Government agrees to write off millions in special needs debts for Central Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire councils
Overview
The government has agreed to write off 90% of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) debts for Central Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire councils after approving their reform plans. Hertfordshire expects to receive £74.7m leaving an £8.3m remaining debt, while Central Bedfordshire will have £36m cleared and must find £4m. Local officials and charities acknowledge the relief but warn that underlying funding challenges remain and future deficits could still accumulate.
Key points
- The government is clearing 90% of special needs debts for Central Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire councils following approved SEND reform plans.
- Hertfordshire County Council expects to have £74.7m of its debt cleared, leaving it responsible for £8.3m.
- Central Bedfordshire Council will have £36m paid off, leaving a remaining debt of £4m.
- Hertfordshire is also receiving nearly £10m to expand its team of specialists supporting mainstream schools.
- Local representatives warn that future funding levels remain unchanged, meaning councils could still accumulate future deficits.