Parents' anger at proposed council cuts for ‘vulnerable children’ with special educational needs

Families with children who have special education needs and disabilities (Send) currently get £300 on a prepaid card to spend on activities including swimming and soft play venues.

But now Portsmouth City Council wants to cut this by £50 – and exclude families who already access respite care for their children.

Mum Lisa Howard-Dagg, 46, whose son Flynn, nine, is autistic and unable to speak, said: ‘I’m really upset about this proposal and feel it’s a kick in the teeth to everyone looking after Send children.

‘This money makes a real difference.

‘I understand the council have a tight budget but cuts shouldn't be from the most vulnerable.’

Helen Barter, 43, runs Stand-up, a Send support group and has a 10-year-old daughter, Mollie, who is severely autistic.

She said: ‘I’m really concerned about these changes.

‘When I first started using the scheme three years ago the card was £600.

‘As a single parent and full-time carer I use this money for treats such as soft-play and swimming which helps improve Mollie’s quality of life.’

Helen sends Mollie to the Beechside Short Break Service in Havant Road for respite care.

But, under proposals, she would no longer be able to have the prepaid card.

She said: ‘What I don’t understand is why they have to do both — surely saving money on the card is enough.’