BASINGSTOKE'S MP has welcomed £26m in funding for SEND children in Hampshire to receive school places that 'meet their needs'.

The large boost in funding has come as part of a government plan to give councils across the UK £850m to create new places for young people with special educational needs and disabilities. 

Maria Miller said: “I want every child within my constituency to have the same opportunity to meet their potential, so it is vital that children with SEND get the support and resources they need.” 

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“I am, therefore pleased to see that the Conservative Government are investing £26,364,528 in Hampshire which will deliver the education that meets the needs of children with SEND, as the Conservative Government sticks to the plan to deliver on their promise of a brighter future for this generation and the next.” 

The Government has also increased the high-needs budget by more than 60 per cent since 2019-2020 to over £10.5bn in 2024-2025.

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said: “Today we are taking another step to ensure our education system provides all children with the very best start in life. 

“We are making sure no parent has to battle to get the right type of school to meet their needs, and improving the school estate so all children are taught in the best classrooms for generations to come.”