LIIA has published new research by Mime exploring how placements and services for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) are commissioned across London – and how this can be improved.
The report – delivered by Mime Consulting, explores how local authorities and health partners are responding to rising demand, changing needs, and increasing financial pressures. It finds wide variation in local commissioning models, with limited joint working and key challenges around roles, capacity and data sharing.
Commissioners reported significant gaps in specialist expertise, especially in areas such as procurement, legal and finance. High staff turnover and a lack of dedicated resources make it harder to plan and deliver services effectively. While informal peer networks offer some support, there is clear demand for more structured collaboration and learning.
The report also highlights the need for better data to inform commissioning decisions – particularly around independent placements—and recommends the creation of shared data tools and a pan-London data working group.
With the number of children and young people with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) continuing to grow, especially at secondary and post-16 stages, investment in state-funded provision is increasingly urgent. Without this, London risks growing reliance on independent placements.
There is strong support for a more collaborative approach across London. The report calls for a pan-London SEND commissioning hub, more coordinated joint commissioning, and clearer shared priorities to help improve outcomes and value for money.
The next key phase of LIIA’s work on SEND commissioning will focus on working with partners to understand how London can best implement the findings and recommendations of this report.
Commissioning and SEND Lead: Frank Offer (LIIA)
Policy and Project Support Officer: Bethan Evans (LIIA)