Following publication of the Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and AP Improvement Plan, James welcomed the focus on speech and language issues which he has raised with ministers following school visits.
The implementation review found that there is strong evidence that without receiving the right support early to address speech, language and communication needs (SLCN), children are at increased risk of poor educational attainment, poor social emotional and mental health and poor employment outcomes.
In partnership with NHS England, the government will include Early Language and Support For Every Child (ELSEC) pathfinders within our £70 million Change Programme by supporting 9 Integrated Care Boards and one of the local areas within each the 9 Regional Expert Partnerships to trial new ways of working to better identify and support children with SLCN in early years and primary schools.
James asked that ministers consider Norfolk and Waveney as one of the pathfinder areas.
The Plan can be found here.