Worcestershire County Council will be getting an eight per cent funding boost for pupils with special educational needs.

The news was confirmed by the Department for Education following a question by West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin who has been a long-time campaigner for increased ‘higher needs’ funding.

Schools Minister Nick Gibb confirmed that £780 million of extra funding has been allocated for the start of this academic year with each local authority getting an extra eight per cent funding.

Harriett commented: “I hold regular meetings with parents and teachers about special educational needs provision and I’ve been an advocate for better funding in Westminster.

“Special educational needs funding, and in particular autism provision, is one of my highest priorities and I will keep a close eye on this issue to make sure parents are reassured that the right funding and the right provision is in place.”