I vehemently condemn the recent reprehensible remarks made by certain Conservative councillors at Warwickshire County Council (WCC) regarding Special Educational Needs & Disability Children (SEND) in a recent Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting.  Such disgraceful comments are not only ignorant but also deeply offensive to the families and communities they affect. Whilst an apology has been issued, it falls short in addressing the extensive damage caused by the comments of those councillors. As a former group leader, myself, I am calling on the Leader of WCC, to take action by disciplining these councillors instead of allowing them to remain in their positions and condoning such behaviour. The continued presence of these councillors in public office is shameful and unacceptable.

Over the past few days, numerous parents of SEND children, particularly from my own South Asian community, have reached out to me to express their horror and disgust at the comments made. Some South Asian parents have faced heightened challenges due to the longstanding stigma and taboo within our own community and cultural circles. SEND has historically been a hidden issue, not openly discussed or supported. However, there is now much growing awareness and understanding, and we are beginning to see positive changes in our community.

As a mum myself, I know that every parent wants the best for their child. The insensitivity displayed by the comments of these councillors, towards SEND children and their families, is appalling and goes against the fundamental principles of equality and inclusivity.

By questioning the legitimacy of these children’s needs and suggesting collusion among parents, these councillors have demonstrated a shocking lack of empathy and understanding. Such attitudes have no place in our society, let alone in positions of public trust.

The efforts of SEND families and communities to break down barriers and dispel stigmas deserve our utmost respect and support. These remarks not only undermine their progress but also perpetuate harmful stereotypes and discrimination. As elected representatives, it is our duty to uphold the rights and dignity of all members of our community, especially those who are most vulnerable.

I urge these councillors to reflect on the harm caused by their words and to take immediate action by resigning from their positions. Anything short of this would be a betrayal of the trust placed in them by the people they are meant to serve. Let us send a clear message that such attitudes have no place in our council chambers or in public discourse and reaffirm our commitment to standing up for the rights and well-being of all individuals, regardless of ability or circumstance.

Councillor Mini Kaur Mangat

Warwick Town Council

Vice-Chair Constituency Labour Party Warwick & Leamington