Overview

The Special Educational Needs (Information) Act 2008 amended the Education Act 1996 to improve the collection and publication of information about children with special educational needs (SEN) in England. The aim was to use this information to better support these children's well-being.

Description

This Act mandates the Secretary of State to gather and publish information relating to children with SEN in England. This information covers aspects of their physical and mental health, emotional well-being, protection from harm, education, training, recreation, societal contribution, and social and economic well-being. The Secretary of State must use existing powers to obtain this data. The published information must not include the names of the children involved. A small charge, not exceeding the cost of supply, may be levied for providing this information.

Key Provisions:

• Requires the Secretary of State to collect information on children with SEN.
• Requires the annual publication of this information (anonymized).
• Defines "special needs information" and "child" within the context of the act.
• Allows for a small charge for supplying the information.

Government Spending

The Act doesn't specify direct government spending figures. However, it implies costs associated with data collection, analysis, publication, and potential staff time. There may also be costs associated with the potential for requests for this information.

Groups Affected

• Children with Special Educational Needs (SEN): The Act aims to improve their well-being through better information gathering and targeted support.
• Parents of children with SEN: May indirectly benefit from improved services and support resulting from better data analysis.
• Educational institutions: May be involved in data collection and could benefit from insights gathered through the information.
• Government bodies and researchers: Will have access to the published information to inform policy and research in SEN support.

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