Key Highlights
- Richard Tice of Reform UK criticizes the use of ear defenders in schools as “insane.”
- Tice claims there is an overdiagnosis of neurodiverse conditions among children.
- A press conference was held at Westminster to address the Send crisis and other issues.
- The National Autistic Society strongly rejects Tice’s claims about overdiagnosis.
Reform UK Deputy Leader Criticizes Use of Ear Defenders in Schools
Richard Tice, deputy leader of Reform UK, has sparked controversy by calling for an end to the use of ear defenders in schools. Speaking at a press conference held on Monday at Westminster, Tice described the practice as “insane,” emphasizing that it should be discontinued.
Absurdity and Overdiagnosis
Tice highlighted the absurdity of children wearing ear defenders during classroom activities. He stated, “The sight of children in classes wearing ear defenders, I’m sorry, this is just insane. It’s got to stop.” This statement drew immediate attention from various stakeholders, including students and educators.
SEND Crisis and Neurodiversity Concerns
The press conference also addressed the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) crisis in the UK. Tice argued that there is a significant overdiagnosis of neurodiverse conditions such as ADHD among children, suggesting that schools should handle support without formal labels.
“The best thing to do actually, is to push almost all of it back to the schools. The schools know best, the teachers know best.”
Tice further stated, “Stop labelling people, just say ‘you need a bit of extra support, you might need a bit of extra time’.” However, his claims faced strong pushback from Joey Nettleton Burrows of the National Autistic Society.
Autism Advocates Respond
Burrows sharply rejected Tice’s assertions about overdiagnosis. He stated, “Claiming there is ‘overdiagnosis’ couldn’t be further from the truth. The system needs reform to meet the needs of all children, so that Send children, including autistic young people, can access a suitable school place and thrive.” Burrows emphasized that parents are fighting against a broken SEND system to secure basic support for their children.
Other Issues Discussed
The press conference also touched on the financial crisis within local authorities managing SEND needs. Tice criticized annual reviews of education, health, and care plans as “unnecessary,” claiming they cost “two to four grand a pop.” He highlighted that Reform-controlled local authorities are making savings totalling “well over” £300 million since May.
Reform UK’s Local Control and SEND Debts
Tice also addressed the financial burden of SEND debts. According to recent research, these debts could reach £17.8 billion by 2029—nearly £1,000 per child in England. More than half of councils surveyed said they would go bankrupt if a statutory override protecting them ends in March 2028.
“It’s just not fair and it’s not fair to the children most in need, who are not getting the provision they require in the speed they require it.”
The press conference concluded with Tice highlighting several achievements of Reform UK-controlled local authorities, such as filling 136,000 potholes and securing over £300 million in savings.
