What’s it all about? This autumn, Liberal Democrat Children’s Minister Sarah Teather will publish a green paper outlining the government’s approach to improving the support for children and young people with special educational needs (SEN) and disabilities.

The consultation document states that too many children and young people with SEN or disabilities are failed by services, and in light of the imminent spending review, a more cohesive approach is needed.

What are the main points? The proposed principles for the green paper include greater transparency for parents so they know exactly what SEN provision is available and how their child will be supported; better value from SEN services; less bureaucracy; and the involvement of parents in the planning and delivery of SEN services.

Who can have their say? Sarah Teather is keen to hear where improvements in government policy can be made from those directly affected by it. Views are sought from parents, young people, practitioners and professionals, and anyone else who has experience with SEN or disability.When is the deadline? Views must be submitted no later than 15 October.

Read more on the consultation.

In response to the recent Ofsted report on special educational needs, Sarah Teather said: “Ofsted’s report presents some challenging but familiar criticisms of the system supporting children with special educational needs (SEN) and disability. It is clear that we have a consensus on some of the issues with the SEN system – now I want to work with parents, charities, teachers and other organisations to find a consensus on the solutions.

“I have launched a call for contributions to the Government’s SEN and disability Green Paper, which will focus first and foremost on meeting families’ needs. Children with SEN and disabilities should have the provision they need to succeed and parents should not feel they have to battle the system to get help. Improving diagnosis and assessment will be central to our commitment to overhaul the system to ensure families get the appropriate support at the right time.”