New Guidance to Support Children Out of School
The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman has released new guidance to help councils better support children who can’t attend school — often due to anxiety or special educational needs.
Complaints about alternative education have surged tenfold in recent years, from 38 cases in 2021-22 to 400 in 2024-25. The Ombudsman’s new guide highlights lessons from its investigations — showing where councils have gone wrong and sharing examples of good practice.
Key advice for councils includes:
Acting quickly to decide on alternative education
Taking a person-centred approach
Keeping clear communication
Handling complaints properly
Ombudsman Mrs Amerdeep Clarke said councils are under huge pressure, but “by getting the basics right,” they can make a big difference for families.
Read more and access the full guide: 
www.lgo.org.uk/information-centre/reports
Published: 30 October 2025
