‘The system is failing to understand and support children’s unique needs’

Laura Anne Jones, who represents the Welsh Conservatives, is one of four regional Senedd Members serving the South Wales East region.

This week, I had the privilege of speaking in the Senedd about an issue that is incredibly close to my heart – supporting children with additional learning needs (ALN) and their families.

As a former committee member, I’ve seen first-hand the dedication of our team to uncover the gaps in the system, and I want to thank everyone involved, including our brilliant chairs, Buffy Williams and Jayne Bryant, for their relentless hard work. But what good is all this effort if the Welsh Government doesn’t act? 

Hearing heartbreaking stories from families is a stark reminder of the real struggles out there. Just this week, a parent shared with me how their child, who shouts out answers due to their ALN condition, was excluded from school. This isn’t bad behaviour; it’s a sign the system is failing to understand and support children’s unique needs. And it’s not an isolated case. 

The inconsistency across Wales in how the ALN Act is applied is appalling – a true postcode lottery. The Government’s rejection of crucial recommendations, like mandatory disability awareness training for teachers, leaves me frustrated. How can we ensure inclusion if staff aren’t properly equipped? 

Every child deserves the chance to learn and thrive. That’s why I’m urging the government to revisit these recommendations. Inclusive education isn’t a luxury; it’s a basic right. Our children – and their families – deserve better. Let’s make it happen. 

The agricultural industry, or to be more specific small family farmers, also faces a huge challenge as a result of the changes brought in by the budget. 

This week, I heard from a farmer who fears Labour’s inheritance tax changes will drive her farm to ruin. The changes to inheritance tax leave small farms easy prey for developers who will rip apart the fabric of our rural communities. Let’s call this policy what it is – a government land grab.

Even worse this week, a former senior Labour aide John McTernan openly declared: “We don’t need the small farmers” and “this is an industry we can do without.” These disgraceful words expose a shocking disdain for those who toil to feed our nation.

I will be meeting more farmers this week to discuss the matter. Hopefully, MPs of all parties who represent rural areas, including our own in Caerphilly, will want to take a stand and oppose this assault on our agricultural communities.