Hartlepool Council explores ways to increase SEND provision

Hartlepool Council is considering expanding local schools and working with an external partner to increase SEND provision, and it is awaiting the national SEND White Paper and potential capital funding for 2026–2029.

Hartlepool Council is reviewing options to increase provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities. Council leaders reported there are more children with special needs in the town than before. Proposals include expanding Catcote Academy, Springwell School and Hartlepool College of Further Education, and exploring an external partnership for young people with autism spectrum disorder and complex behaviour. A report setting out these options went to the council's children's services committee and the authority is awaiting the national SEND White Paper and any associated capital funding. Key facts: - Council leaders say there are more children with special educational needs and disabilities in Hartlepool than previously recorded. - Proposed measures include expanding Catcote Academy, Springwell School and Hartlepool College of Further Education. - The council is considering working with an external partner on provision for young people with autism spectrum disorder and complex behaviour, with minimal capital investment and possible delivery in 2026/27. - A report on these options was presented to the children's services committee. - The local authority is awaiting publication of the SEND White Paper, which it expects may include capital funding for 2026–2029. - If funding is insufficient, schemes will be prioritised by area of greatest need and reviewed annually for demand and cost efficiency. Summary: The report sets out a range of options aimed at increasing local SEND places and supporting young people with autism and complex behaviour. Next steps include awaiting the SEND White Paper and potential funding, after which the council says it will prioritise schemes by need and review demand and costs on an annual basis.