Chris talks taxpayer cost of Surrey County Council's failings on BBC Radio Surrey

I shared my concerns about the growing financial impact this crisis is having — with Surrey taxpayers ultimately bearing the cost of Surrey County Council’s continued failures in delivering adequate support for children with SEND.

Cases are being escalated to the Ombudsman, with Surrey County Council paying out £500,000 in 2024—mostly in compensation for missed education or unmet provisions. Despite these payouts, there is little sign of improvement.

The Council must start listening to families and teachers, and focus on real change—getting children back into school with the right support, rather than paying out compensation in the hope that issues will quietly disappear.