Cumbria County Council is calling on the Government to provide extra funding to meet the demand for the region’s special schools.

Out of 121 applications from parents last year, only 76 were successful in securing a place for their child meaning that 45 children missed out.

Cllr Sue Sanderson, the cabinet member for schools and learning, said the current demand has exceeded the county’s capacity.

“We understand parents’ frustration and we are lobbying central government to provide the additional funding that is needed to meet the growing demand," she said.

“This situation is not unique to Cumbria. Across the country local authorities are struggling to meet increasing demand due to inadequate government funding.

“Where children do not secure a place they will normally be supported to attend mainstream school.”

Currently, there are 660 places across six Cumbrian special schools.

Places at special schools are allocated by an independent panel and based on need.

Parents can appeal the decision made by the panel.

Cumbria’s special schools cost £11.5 million a year, approximately £20,000 per place.