High needs national funding formula – proposed changes

Closed 24 Mar 2021

Opened 10 Feb 2021

Contact

highneedsNFF.CONSULTATION@education.gov.uk

Overview

We're seeking views on proposed initial changes to the High Needs National Funding Formula (NFF) as part of a longer term review of the NFF. 

We have also published a step-by-step calculation of the updated historic spend factor amounts shown in table 2 in annex B of the consultation document (see historic spend factor calculation spreadsheet below). NB: the numbers in table 2 are not yet final.

Why we are consulting

The high needs National Funding Formula (NFF) calculates funding allocations to local authorities for children and young people in England with complex special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) or who require alternative provision (AP).

This consultation forms the first stage of a longer term review of the High Needs NFF. This review will be taken forward following the SEND review, and will consider how the distribution of High Needs funding can be improved, to achieve the highest quality support for the most vulnerable children and young people.

Audiences

  • Teachers
  • Headteachers
  • Governors
  • Local authorities
  • Adult education providers
  • SENCOs
  • Educational Psychologists
  • Pupils
  • Young people
  • Parents
  • Foster carers
  • Adoptive parents
  • Social workers
  • Those evaluating programmes for children in need
  • Those involved in underlying theoretical research on abuse and neglect, child development etc
  • Those researching children’s social care or education systems, with links to educational outcomes of Children in Need
  • Social workers
  • Directors of children's services
  • CAMHS
  • Adult and mental health practitioners
  • Health visitors
  • School nurses
  • Clinical commissioning groups

Interests

  • Alternative provision
  • School and academy funding
  • School funding reform
  • Disabled children