A SOUTH Lakeland councillor joined a delegation in Westminster today demanding extra funding for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in schools.

Sue Sanderson, Cumbria County Council’s cabinet member for schools, joined a number of representatives from across the country to present a petition with over 32,000 signatures to Damian Hinds, Secretary of State for Education, as part of the National Education Union’s (NEU) ‘Stop School Cuts’ campaign.

The petition calls for the government to give extra funding to SEND in all schools and colleges and give power back to local authorities so they can tailor the services to the needs of the children in their communities.

Cllr Sanderson, who represents Cartmel, said: “I was proud to join the delegation and hand over the National Education Union petition to the Department for Education. The government has failed to provide the funding needed for schools and local authorities to give children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities the education they deserve, and I hope today’s action will encourage the government to reconsider the level of funding provided”

Barrow councillor Anne Burns, cabinet member for children’s services, said she supported the calls for extra funding:

She said “We don’t feel the children that need extra tuition in schools the most are getting the right funding. Almost every county council is united in wanting more funding for special needs. These children have a right to equal opportunities and without adequate funding this right is under threat.”

This appeal is the latest protest after headteachers marched against school funding cuts in September.

A Government spokesperson said: “We want all children to have the support they need to live healthy and happy lives, with the knowledge and skills to fulfil their potential.

“That is why core schools funding is increasing to £43.5 billion by 2020, including £6 billion specifically for children with complex special educational needs.”