A RADICAL overhaul of support for children and adults with a special educational need or disability (SEND) has been called for by Wellington’s MP Gideon Amos.

Mr Amos, speaking in in Parliament, said he was backed by local mother Tatjana Bodman, who created support and advocacy group Somerset SEND Army with several other parents.

He took part in a debate after an e-petition titled ‘Children with SEND: Assessments and support’ collected 122,000 signatures.

Mr Amos said: “It is not abstract for me, because of the support my wife gives to many families who have children with special needs, including in our own home.

“From my experiences with my own children and from my surgeries, I know the regular trials, the pain, and the often extreme, debilitating stress families go through trying to get a basic, decent education for their children.

“Parents are driven to the very edge by a system they have had to battle through every step of the way.

“It should not be like this.”

Mr Amos said too many families were forced into crisis before help arrived and many feared forthcoming Government reforms would make it even harder for them.

He said Somerset Council recognised the system was not working and was trying hard to turn around the position.

Mr Amos said: “The system is not good enough, and it is failing our families.

“Government funding has to be part of the change, but families in Wellington and elsewhere are worried that change will threaten the future of children’s education.

“Their right to assessment and support must be maintained and there must be enhanced investment in both special provision and mainstream special educational needs provision.”

Ms Bodman said later: “Gideon’s voice gives hope to countless SEND families across Somerset, hope the system can change and our children will finally be seen, heard, and supported.”