We would like an independent review into the currently available educational provision for children with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health needs, and whether it is fit for purpose

We call for investment in trauma-informed training, and for truly therapeutic and nurturing provision to be rolled out in all SEMH settings. Children present with SEMH needs for a host of reasons, such as neurodiversity, infant trauma, and ongoing difficult home situations. Tough starts in life that deserve care and understanding. We think the opportunities for children with challenging behaviour such as aggression or absconsion are concerning. They include settings that can be loud, chaotic and with punitive behaviour policies and physical restraint. The opposite of the nurturing and therapeutic settings needed to feel safe and learn.