§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what guidelines he has issued to local education authorities in England with regard to the provision of speech therapy, physiotherapy and occupational therapy in schools; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FallonThe Department issued circular 22/89 on "Assessments and Statements of Special Educational Needs: Procedures within the Education, Health and Social Services" in September 1989. This contains guidance on the need for authorities to work closely with district health authorities and social services departments on the provision of non-educational services.
§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will ensure that all statements of educational needs undertaken in England under the 29W provisions of the Education Act 1981 specify the need for therapies such as speech therapy, where such provision is relevant to the educational needs of the child.
§ Mr. FallonThe form of statements of special educational needs is set out in the Education (Special Educational Needs) Regulations 1983, as amended. These provide that statements shall specify the special educational provision which the education authority considers appropriate to meet a child's special educational needs. The preparation and maintenance of such statements is the responsibility of local education authorities.