A girl with special educational needs and her mother have been awarded £14,300 in compensation after Dorset Council failed to provide suitable schooling for two years. The Local Government Ombudsman (LGO) found that between March 2022 and April 2024, the council caused “upset and worry” by mishandling the girl’s case. The payout includes £14,000 for six terms of lost education and an additional £300 to reflect the “upset, uncertainty, and frustration” caused by the council’s failings...
The girl (not shown in picture) was denied access to a suitable education for over two years
Dorset Council Acknowledges Failures and Promises Improvements
In response to the findings, Dorset Council accepted responsibility for the shortcomings. Paul Dempsey, executive director for children’s services, stated that most of the LGO’s recommended actions have already been implemented.
He added:
“Dorset Council remains committed to making continuous improvements for the benefit of our families, and ensuring situations like this remain rare.”
The council emphasised its dedication to improving education and support for children with special educational needs, citing progress highlighted in a recent Local Area SEND inspection.
A Commitment to Better Support for Families in Dorset
While acknowledging the compensation ruling, Dorset Council assured residents of its ongoing efforts to improve services. The council highlighted “clear plans” to address remaining areas of concern and reiterated its aim to ensure every child in Dorset receives the education they deserve.
This case highlights the importance of holding local authorities accountable for providing adequate education and support to children with special needs.
We sincerely hope that the council's commitment to better support for families continues and that every child in Dorset does indeed receive the education they derseve.
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