GMB, the union for school support staff, has commented on the Education Select Committee's report on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Karen Leonard, GMB National Schools Officer, said:
"Thousands of families are trapped in a nightmare created by inadequate funding, dysfunctional bureaucracy, and cuts to specialist support staff.
"GMB schools support staff members are dedicated professionals. Schools could not offer an inclusive service without them, but the profession is close to breaking point.
"As MPs have recognised, funding levels are far too low, and local authorities must be able to open new schools to create the placements needed to meet children's needs.
"At the same time, important ground remains to be covered. School support staff are the hidden professionals at the heart of the education system, and it is a disappointing omission that the report only mentions them in passing.
"It is clear that more must be done to raise awareness of the crucial role that teaching assistants and other support staff workers play in supporting SEND learners, and the devastating impact that cuts have had on children and their families."
