Rising Costs in SEND-Related Fines

Surrey County Council has paid more than £1 million in fines and redress over the past two years, most of which stem from failures in its education services. Reports reveal that 93% of payouts are linked to issues with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), including delays, incomplete provisions, and breaches of statutory timeframes for assessments and reviews.

Annual Breakdown of Payments

The council’s fines have increased sharply over recent years:

• 2020/21: £104,630

• 2021/22: £92,698

• 2022/23: £258,730

• 2023/24: £540,611

• 2024/25: £480,797

Although the 2024/25 figure is lower than the previous year, it remains significantly higher than earlier years.

Council’s Response and Improvements

Jonathan Hulley, cabinet member for children, families and lifelong learning, acknowledged that the fines were “higher than they should be” but emphasized that improvements are underway. He highlighted that EHCP timeliness since January has been “well above the national average” at 91%.

He added that Surrey has “invested heavily in SEND” and reiterated that ensuring every child with additional needs and disabilities receives proper support remains the council’s top priority.

Ongoing Challenges and Apologies

Despite improvements, the council continues to face challenges from growing demand for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) services. In October, the authority issued an apology to families affected by past shortcomings in its SEND provision.

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FAQs

Q1: Why has Surrey County Council paid so much in fines?
Most fines relate to delays or failures in Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and SEND provision.

Q2: How much did the council pay in 2024/25?
The council paid £480,797 in fines during the 2024/25 financial year.

Q3: What improvements have been reported?
EHCP timeliness has improved, with 91% of plans meeting deadlines since January, above the national average.

Q4: How is the council addressing SEND challenges?
Surrey has invested heavily in SEND services and pledged to prioritize support for children with additional needs.

Q5: Has the council apologised for past failings?
Yes, in October the council apologised to families for shortcomings in its SEND provision.