BARNSLEY Council’s leader has responded to an ‘outraged’ parent’s criticism following a glowing inspection of the special educational needs support the local authority offers.

Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission conducted the inspection to assess the quality of support offered to those receiving SEND support.

The council celebrated the report’s outcome but long-time campaigner Jonathan Wainwright, 48, called on the newly-formed Reform council to carry out an investigation having claimed the judgement was not reflective of the SEND support available in Barnsley.

In response, leader of the council, William Brown, said: “Firstly I want to thank parents and families who continue to speak up about their experiences with SEND services in Barnsley.

“While we recognise the achievements of the council’s SEND team and the valuable work they deliver, we also understand the frustration and concern some families feel.

“Our administration has only been in place for two weeks, but we are open to investigating concerns raised following the recent SEND inspection report and listening carefully to residents, parents, and professionals.

“I would also like to personally invite Mr Wainwright to Barnsley Town Hall for an open and constructive discussion so we can better understand the concerns being raised and how we can work together to improve services going forward.”