Hundreds of families in Northern Ireland are facing delays in securing school places for their children, a concern highlighted at an event held at Stormont. Organized by SEN Reform NI, the event focused on challenges within the school system, particularly for children with special educational needs (SEN). Education Minister Paul Givan disclosed that 400 children are awaiting decisions on preschool and primary school placements. Dorothy Murray, co-founder of SEN Reform, shared her own struggles, noting her non-verbal autistic daughter, Sienna, did not receive a specialized nursery place and is now awaiting a Primary One placement. Murray emphasized the emotional toll on families navigating these challenges, citing overwhelming stress and inadequate support from educational authorities.
