In this episode, we explore whether the “expert at hand” model can truly improve the S.E.N.D system, or whether it risks becoming another strong idea that struggles in practice.

The conversation starts with a simple but important question… who actually is the expert? Rather than placing that label on one professional, the discussion reframes expertise as something shared. Teachers, SENCOs, specialists, families, and even the child all bring valuable insight and it’s only when those perspectives come together that meaningful support can happen.

We also dig into the reality behind the policy. While the move towards inclusion and early intervention sounds promising, there are real concerns about how it will work in practice. Questions around funding, structure and collaboration remain unclear, and without those foundations, even the best intentions can fall apart.

A key theme running throughout is relationships. When professionals know each other and understand how they work, support becomes more effective and families feel reassured. Without that, the system can feel fragmented, leaving parents and schools to navigate challenges alone.

The episode also shifts perspective to the child’s voice, asking: what do you need to know and what are you going to do to help me? This question cuts through the complexity and brings the focus back to what really matters.

Ultimately, the conversation highlights that real change won’t come from policy alone. It depends on people, on collaboration and on keeping the child at the centre of every decision.

In This Episode, We Discuss

• What the “expert at hand” model really means in practice
• Why shared expertise matters more than individual roles
• The gap between policy ambition and real-world delivery
• The importance of relationships in effective support
• Why the child’s voice should guide decision-making

Why This Episode Matters

The S.E.N.D system is under pressure, and change is needed. This episode reminds us that inclusion isn’t just about new frameworks it’s about how people work together, how trust is built and how consistently we focus on the needs of the child.

Connect with Mike Lane

Website: ridgewaypsychology.co.uk
LinkedIn: Michael Lane

Connect with Me

Instagram: @‌dradammcartney
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