THE MP for Taunton Deane has welcomed investment of more than £9million to support local children with special needs.

Children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) across Somerset are set to benefit from improved education thanks to a fresh £9.6million cash injection in SEND services from the government.

The investment is part of an £850 million package being rolled out across the country to boost school places in both mainstream and special schools for SEND students by 60,000.

Commenting on the news, Rebecca Pow MP said: “I want every child within Taunton Deane to have the same opportunity to meet their potential, so it is vital that children with SEND and AP get the support and resources they need. 

“I am, therefore pleased to see that the Government are investing just over £9.6 million in Somerset, which will deliver the education that meets the needs of children with SEND, as the Government sticks to the plan to deliver on their promise of a brighter future for this generation and the next.”

The government’s education secretary said the investment marked ‘a step forward’: “Today we are taking another step to ensure our education system provides all children with the very best start in life.  

“We are making sure no parent has to battle to get the right type of school to meet their needs, and improving the school estate so all children are taught in the best classrooms for generations to come.”