Experiences of children with special educational needs and disabilities and their families in the United Kingdom during the coronavirus pandemic

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to outline the experiences of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their families during the coronavirus pandemic Design/methodology/approach: This paper draws on research gathered and collated by three different organisations working with families of children and young people with SEND Findings: There were a number of common findings across all three surveys In particular: the rapid collapse of external support for children and families;the reduction/withdrawal of support exacerbated the stress and exhaustion already experienced by many families;it proved very difficult to establish home learning and get adequate support from schools;there was little government recognition of families’ vulnerability and need for support;and, paradoxically, a significant minority of children and families reported increased well-being Originality/value: Findings carry clear implications both for the provision of child and family support during any further lockdowns and, more generally, in respect of government policy and funding of family support © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited