A child may receive additional support at school if they have special educational needs (SEN) due to a learning difficulty or disability. Different systems operate across the UK.
Support for children and young people with special or additional educational needs is not classed as a public fund for immigration purposes. It can be accessed regardless of immigration status, including by those who are subject to the no recourse to public funds (NRPF) condition.
If a child requires more support than their school can provide, an assessment can be requested for an education, health and care (EHC) plan. An EHC plan sets out the child’s needs and the support required, and may include a personal budget to help meet those needs.
Support may continue until the young person reaches the age of 25.
See government guidance on support for children with special educational needs and disabilities.
In Scotland, support is provided through the additional support for learning (ASL) framework, which forms part of the Getting it Right for Every Child approach. Support is available to any child who needs additional help to reach their educational potential. This may be due to a disability, health condition, or learning difficulty.
See the Scottish Government website for more information.
In Wales, children and young people with additional learning needs (ALN) can receive support from their school or local authority. Each child with ALN will have an Individual Development Plan (IDP) setting out the support they need.
See the Welsh Government website for more information.
In Northern Ireland, children with special educational needs (SEN) are recorded on the SEN register. Schools work with parents to develop a support plan, such as an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or Personal Learning Plan (PLP).
See the Northern Ireland Government website for more information.
Page updated: 11 June 2026
