Listen to this story Members can listen to an AI-generated audio version of this article. 1.0x Audio narration uses an AI-generated voice. 0:00 0:00 Become a member to listen to this article Subscribe Ministers are mulling changes to a controversial policy that allowed councils to raid nearly 拢380 million from school budgets over the past decade to plug spiralling SEND deficits. Schools Week can reveal how 21 councils were given ministerial go-ahead to transfer a combined 拢75.5 million from mainstream school budgets to the high–needs pot in 2026-27. Headteachers are demanding the government scrap the cash transfers, in light of its plans to wipe most of councils鈥� existing SEND deficits. Become a member for unlimited access to Schools Week subscribe Our members enjoy early access to exclusive content and in-depth articles before anyone else. Get expert journalism, experience fewer ads, and unlock a growing range of member benefits.