Parents of children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) are expressing disappointment over the lack of time to reform the law and ensure continued support for their children after they leave school, with some describing the situation as "devastating".

According to Health Minister Mike Nesbitt, the current timeline is insufficient to implement the necessary legislative changes before the upcoming election, prompting him to acknowledge that "time has run out".

Alma White, the mother of 18-year-old Caleb, who has autism and is nearing the end of his school career, believes that young people with SEN are not receiving the support they need, stating that they are "being failed" by the system.

In response to the Health Minister's statement, Alma White expressed appreciation for his candor but noted that the uncertainty surrounding her son's future is causing her significant distress, saying "it hurts deeply because more uncertainty looms".

Minister Nesbitt cited the impending purdah period, during which no new ministerial policies can be introduced, as a key factor in the lack of time available to effect the desired changes to the law, highlighting the constraints imposed by the pre-election timeline.

The upcoming assembly elections are scheduled to take place by May 2027.

A statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN) in Northern Ireland is a legally binding document that outlines the specific support a child is entitled to receive from educational institutions.

Once students with SEN leave school, they often encounter a significant gap in support services, with parents and school administrators warning of a precipice in provision for their post-school lives.

In contrast, England has an Education and Health Care Plan (EHCP) that remains in effect until the individual reaches 25 years of age, specifying the assistance they should receive.

Nevertheless, some local authorities in England have faced criticism for not adequately providing the support mandated by the EHCP.

In Northern Ireland, a distinct difference exists in the support system for young people with special educational needs, as Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) are not implemented, and the provisions outlined in a student's Statement of Special Educational Needs cease upon completion of their schooling.

Advocates, including Alma White, founder of the Caleb's Cause organization, have been pushing for legislative reforms in Northern Ireland to address the existing gaps in support services.

Protests have been held at Stormont, the seat of the Northern Ireland Assembly, to draw attention to the issue and prompt action from lawmakers.

According to Alma White, her efforts to bring about change began when her son Caleb was 16 years old, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive support system.

Alma White expressed concern that the government has not adequately addressed the systemic issues that leave young people like Caleb without a clear plan or support after they finish school, stating that "instead of our government tackling the systemic failures Caleb and so many others now face that cliff edge with no plan."

A apology is extended to the young individuals who will be impacted by this decision, as more could not be accomplished to change the outcome.

As the mother of Caleb, there was an expectation that meaningful action would be taken during this term, given the compelling evidence and factual information presented.

The existing law has been in place for nearly five decades, and an update is being sought to reflect current needs.

The question remains as to how much longer it will take for this change to occur, with a sense of uncertainty about the timeline.

Concerns are being raised about the lack of equal access to choices and the uneven application of human rights principles.

In Northern Ireland, numerous individuals, including Caleb, are not receiving adequate support, and the regional executive is aware of this ongoing issue.

Caroline Campbell's son, Oscar, who has autism, is nearing the end of his special school education, marking a significant milestone.

According to Ms Campbell, Oscar has only one year of schooling left, during which he will still be protected by existing laws.

The government's stance is perceived as a clear indication that Oscar's needs are being disregarded, prompting concerns about his future prospects.

Ms Campbell expressed her distress at the prospect of Oscar spending most of his time at home, citing concerns about the potential impact on his development and opportunities.

The individual in question requires access to options, which can only be achieved through a legislative overhaul.

During a plenary session, Alliance MLA Nick Mathison inquired about Nesbitt's plans to implement care and support plans for students with Special Educational Needs upon their departure from school.

According to Mathison, numerous parents are worried that once their children complete their education, they will no longer be protected by their Special Educational Needs statement.

Nesbitt stated that introducing legislation during the current mandate is not being considered, citing a lack of time as the primary reason.

Nesbitt expressed a desire to see the implementation of multiple legislative pieces before the start of purdah in March 2027.

The issue in question is indeed one of them, and it is receiving attention from us, with no intention of disregarding its significance.

However, I must provide an honest response to the member, and I will not misrepresent the facts.

At present, there is no proposal in place, as we have been informed that the current legislative timeline, which extends up to the pre-election period, does not allow for it.