All Means All – Wolverhampton’s Local SEND Reform Plan 2026–2029 – has been developed in partnership with schools, health services, social care, families, and young people, and sets out how the City of Wolverhampton Council and its partners across education, health and care will work together to transform the local SEND system.

At the heart of the plan is a shift towards earlier identification and intervention, stronger inclusion in mainstream settings, and better access to specialist support. The reforms will also expand local provision and build capacity within mainstream schools, helping reduce reliance on high cost independent and out of area placements.

Meanwhile, a new 'Experts at Hand' model will provide quicker access to specialist advice and support, strengthening the skills of the workforce and preventing needs from escalating unnecessarily.

It follows the publication of the Department for Education's White Paper, Every Child Achieving and Thriving, which outlines changes to schools and the SEND system.

These include specific SEND reforms intended to improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND by shifting the system away from late, crisis driven intervention towards earlier, fairer and more consistent support, with a strong focus on inclusive practice and shared accountability across education, health and care partners.

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “This is an important step forward for children and young people with SEND in Wolverhampton.

"We know the system is under sustained pressure, with increasing demand and complexity and growing financial challenges, and that families need support that is timely, consistent and easy to access.

"All Means All responds to this rising demand and provides a clear roadmap for change and long term financial sustainability.

"By ensuring children and young people receive the right help at the right time, in their local communities wherever possible, we can improve experiences and outcomes while reducing the need for more intensive and costly interventions later on.

"This is about creating a system that works better for everyone – one that delivers high quality support, strengthens local services and is fit for the long term.”

The plan was approved by members of the council's Cabinet last night (Wednesday 10 June, 2026).