Petition over plans to scrap SEND nurseries

Hundreds of people have signed a petition against plans to scrap SEND pre-school provision in Leicestershire.

Leicestershire County Council launched a consultation on 12th January over plans to stop using four specialist nurseries in Burbage, Wigston, Loughborough and Melton Mowbray.

The council says it will pay more money to mainstream nurseries for specialist places instead. 

The nurseries under threat include Menphys Sketchley Hill Nursery based at the primary school site in Burbage, their sister-site in Wigston and Lift Beacon in Loughborough as well as a setting in Melton Mowbray. 

A petition against the proposals, which was set up within hours of the consultation launch, states:

"As the setting manager of a specialist preschool SEND setting in Leicestershire, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact that tailored early education can have on children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Our dedicated team works tirelessly to create an environment where each child receives the individualised attention and care they need to thrive. The prospect of these essential settings being closed is not just a matter of administrative decision; it is a crisis that threatens the future of countless vulnerable children in our community."

"We are calling on Leicestershire County Council to reconsider this decision and to prioritise the funding and resources necessary to keep these essential services open."

We asked Leicestershire County Council what costs savings were likely to be made under these plans but have yet to receive a response. 

The headteacher at Menphys Sketchley Hill Menphys Nursery in Burbage told us: 

"Leicestershire County Council is keen to hear what people think of their proposals on SEND nursery places. As a nursery, we are encouraging parents and carers and staff to have their say. The consultation is open until end 22nd February 2026."

You can take part in the consultation here.