Parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are challenging the Government in the High Court over the imposition of 20% VAT on private school fees. The Education Not Taxation campaign argues the policy disproportionately harms SEND families, many of whom are making significant financial sacrifices to access specialised education their children can't receive in state schools. Families testified to working seven days a week and missing precious time with their children just to afford tuition. The campaign estimates around 35,000 SEND pupils could be forced out of private schools due to the new tax, into a state system already described as 'in crisis.' While the Treasury argues the tax will raise £1.5 to £1.7 billion a year, families insist it's a breach of their rights and deeply unfair to vulnerable children. The case continues in the courts.
Parents of SEND children fight private school VAT hike
Written by David Fletcher 03 Apr 2025
Additional Info
- Pray: for compassion, wisdom, and justice for SEND families navigating financial hardship, that their children may receive the education and care they truly need. (Proverbs 31:8)
- More: www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/parents-send-children-private-school-vat-b2725254.html
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