National SEND Protest Lines Council Offices With Children's Shoes

On November 3, families across multiple regions in England, including Slough, Gloucestershire, Kirklees, Swindon, and Dorset, participated in coordinated protests organized by The SEND Sanctuary UK and partner groups to highlight systemic failures in support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The peaceful demonstrations featured the symbolic display of empty children's shoes outside council offices, representing the thousands of children who have been let down by delays, denials, or inadequate provisions in education, health, and care plans (EHCPs). Parents and campaigners voiced their frustration over long wait times that exceed legal limits, lack of suitable school placements, and the isolation or misunderstanding many children face within the current system. Across these areas, the number of children with EHCPs has risen significantly since 2019, yet families report persistent issues with coordination between services, as noted by Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission. The protests aim to raise awareness of broken promises and red tape, calling for urgent reform to ensure inclusion, respect, and adequate support for every child regardless of the complexity of their needs. Organizers emphasize that the movement represents not only children missing from education but also those whose needs are dismissed or unmet in their current settings.