One of the most confusing parts of the SEND system is understanding who is actually responsible for doing what. Parents, carers and professionals are often told different things by different organisations, especially when support is delayed, unclear or not being delivered.
This guide explains the broad responsibilities of local authorities, schools and colleges in England, and why confusion can still arise even when the legal duties look clear on paper.
The short answer
Responsibility for SEND support is not held by one organisation alone. It depends on the child or young person’s age, educational setting, whether there is an EHCP, and what kind of support is in question.
At a high level:
- Schools and colleges are usually responsible for identifying needs, putting appropriate support in place, and using their best endeavours to secure the special educational provision a pupil or student requires.
- Local authorities are responsible for wider SEND system duties in their area, including the local offer, EHCP assessments, and securing the special educational provision specified in an EHCP they maintain.
- Responsibilities often overlap in practice, which is one reason families can experience confusion or drift.
Who does what?
Local authorities
Local authorities oversee wider SEND duties in their area. That includes the local offer, EHC needs assessment processes, and securing the special educational provision in any EHCP they maintain.
Schools
Schools are usually the first line of SEND support. They are expected to identify needs early, work with families, and use their best endeavours to make appropriate special educational provision.
Colleges and post-16 providers
Colleges also have SEND duties. They are expected to support young people with SEN, use best endeavours, and work with local authorities where an EHCP or wider statutory process is involved.
