In 1991, changes were introduced to the way speech and language therapy services were provided in Scotland to school-aged children. These changes gave education authorities direct control over the financial resources they needed to discharge their duties towards children with the equivalent of a statement. Education authorities now purchase these therapy services direct from health authorities. This model has been suggested as one which might help resolve the difficulties in England. Another approach would be for LEAs and health authorities to have joint responsibility for funding and managing speech and language therapy services for all children.
Similar issues apply with other therapies.
We will consider whether any changes to the provision of speech therapy should be extended to cover the arrangements for the funding of physiotherapy and occupational therapy. We will also consider whether any other services, such as mobility training for visually impaired children or provision of school nurses, would benefit from better collaboration.