Local High Needs Funding (LHNF)

The Local High Needs Funding system is designed to support children and young people (CYP) with emerging high needs, or with needs that fall outside the EHCP process. It is managed locally within the nine DSPL areas although funding is paid out centrally into school budgets. This is top-up funding to provide the cost of provision which exceeds the first £6000 which should be provided from the school’s Notional SEN Budget. It is for interventions and provision which go beyond quality first teaching and reasonable adjustments.

In 2025-26 our Panel will meet to discuss applications on the following dates: 

LHNF Panel dates	Closing date for applications
18th September 2025	4th September 2025 (5pm)
16th October 2025	2nd October 2025 (5pm)
18th November 2025	4th November 2025 (5pm)
22nd January 2026	8th January 2026 (5pm)
11th February 2026	28th January 2026 (5pm)
16th March 2026	2nd March 2026 (5pm)

 Application Process

 Schools and Early Years settings should apply using the forms and guidance below. 

 

Key Documents for Schools and Early Years Settings