Local offer: what you need to know

Find out what the local offer is and what it means for your school. See examples from different local authorities, and how schools refer to the local offer on their websites.

Last reviewed on 28 February 2023
School types: All · School phases: All
Ref: 9961
Contents
  1. What is the local offer?
  2. SENCOs should keep up to date with the local offer
  3. Find examples of local offers 
  4. See how other schools refer and link to local offers

What is the local offer?

It sets out the support available in the local area for children and young people with SEN and/or disabilities (including those without an education, health and care (EHC) plan).

The local offer is not the same as your SEND policy or SEN information report.

Local authorities (LAs) have a statutory duty to develop a local offer and publish it on their website.

This is so they can:

  • Provide clear, comprehensive, accessible and up-to-date information about available provision and how to access it
  • Make sure the provision responds to local needs and aspirations
    • This is done by involving the local community, children and young people with SEND, and service providers (including schools)

All schools must co-operate with the LA for its development and review of the local offer.

This is explained in chapter 4 of the SEND Code of Practice.

SENCOs should keep up to date with the local offer

You'll need to:

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Also in "Managing and improving SEN provision"