Closed petition Early Expert Input and Safeguarding Reform for Children with Additional Learning Needs in Wales

Despite having a diagnosis before starting school, our daughter received no formal risk assessments, safeguarding plan, or specialist input. Concerns raised pre-transition were dismissed, leading to a total breakdown in education and mental health. Schools lack the expertise to draft legally sound IDPs alone, and LEAs often refuse to step in early enough. Families are forced to privately fund support or face long waitlists while their children deteriorate. We’re calling for mandatory Educational Psychology input for all children with complex needs before school entry, clear safeguarding plans based on parent/professional concerns, and early LEA responsibility for complex cases. The IDP system must be proactive, not reactive—our children deserve better.