Pairs of shoes mark children failed by SEND system

Families across the city gathered in Guildhall Square for Every Pair Tells a Story, a national campaign organised by The SEND Sanctuary UK, Let Us Learn Too, and Let’s Make a Difference.

SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) refers to children who need extra support. Schools and local authorities often face challenges with funding, staffing, and resources. This can lead to delays in assessments and inadequate support, leaving many children and families underserved and frustrated.

In 2022/23, 19.8 per cent of pupils in Portsmouth schools had either an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or received SEN support. The national average is 18.4 per cent.

The number of EHCPs in Portsmouth rose by 24 per cent over the year following January 2025, increasing from 1,409 to 1,750.

Projections suggest SEND pupils will grow by 755 by 2031, adding at least £1m in costs if current trends continue.

The Every Pair Tells a Story demonstration asks parents to place a pair of children’s shoes outside town halls. Each pair represents a child whose educational needs are not being met locally.

“These shoes tell the stories of children who want to learn, play and be included,” said Aimee Bradley, founder of The SEND Sanctuary UK. “No child should be left behind because the system decided their needs were too complex or too inconvenient. This is about every child failed by broken promises and endless red tape.”

“The government must listen to parents,” Aimee added. “We are not the problem. We are the evidence of the problem. Our children deserve more than words. They deserve real change, and they deserve it now.”

Cllr Nick Dorrington, cabinet member for children, families and education, said: “We recognise the concerns and frustrations that parents and carers experience within the SEND system, and we support the national awareness events taking place.

“We are working closely with families, schools, and professionals to improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND in Portsmouth. Through our strong partnership, we are developing inclusive provision, such as inclusion hubs, sensory spaces, workforce development, and a local inclusion support hub, to help more children with education, health and care plans thrive in mainstream schools.

“We are also investing in more specialist school places for those with the most complex needs.

“Despite increasing demand and pressure on resources, we remain dedicated to supporting every child and family and we join others in calling for national reform and sustainable funding, so that all children receive the support they deserve.”