Dear constituent,

Thank you for contacting me about support for children with sight loss.

I know Guide Dogs has noted that with specialist training and guidance, children with sight loss can develop ways to navigate their world independently. It has, however, raised concerns that access to specialist support is variable and many children with sight loss are not receiving quality support.

I am deeply concerned about the underfunding of support for those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). In 2014, the system for supporting children and young people with SEND was substantially changed under the Children and Families Act. I am concerned that reforms in this Act have created a postcode lottery of provision, and many children with SEND continue to be let down.

The needs and welfare of children and young people with SEND should have been prioritised during the coronavirus pandemic. But far too often, they and their families have felt forgotten. Schools are facing huge pressures, and a lack of clear guidance and support from the Government when it comes to SEND has resulted in some children being denied a full-time school place or the help they need.

Last year, the Government committed an extra £780 million in 2020-21 to support children and young people with special educational needs. The 2020 Spending Review also pledged £300 million in 2021-22 for new school places for children with special educational needs and disabilities.

However, I am concerned that this funding is not enough to make up the significant shortfall still faced by local councils.

I believe we must deliver a strategy for children and young people with SEND based on inclusivity, so that staff, children and young people and their parents are properly supported.

Thank you once again for contacting me about this important issue. I can assure you I will continue to press the Government to provide the necessary funding to support all children with SEND, including those with vision impairment.

Yours sincerely,

Peter Dowd MP