A new report from social mobility charity the Sutton Trust shows that children from poorer families are more likely to have special educational needs. It also shows that children from wealthier families who have some kind of special educational need are more likely to get support.

Unsurprisingly, middle-class families are more likely to spend money on private reports or diagnosis. They have the cultural capital to fight for and successfully gain an education, health and care plan (EHCP), the legal document that outlines the additional support a child should receive.

Our research explores the academic achievement of children with special educational needs and disabilities over time, the support they receive, and how this varies according to where they live in England. We’ve also explored how this connects with other factors, such as class, and whether children live in poor or wealthier families.

Our results suggest a patchy system where a child’s support and how well they do is influenced by local authorities, schools, and families.

The current system for special educational needs support dates from 2014. The Children and Families Act promised a more inclusive system that put children and families at the heart of special educational needs support. The act provides for “ordinary available provision” or “school support” for most children who need additional help. Statutory provision – EHCPs........

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