AQW 42382/22-27

Mr Nick Mathison
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 12/03/2026
Answered On Date: 27/03/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education for an update on any work undertaken to (i) increase the number of undergraduate places for allied health professions; and (ii) establish protected education posts, as detailed in the SEN Reform Delivery Plan.

Answer:

The Minister for Health is responsible for the creation of Allied Health Professional (AHP) posts. However AHPs will play a key role in supporting special educational needs (SEN) transformation.

Working under the auspices of the Joint Health and Education Oversight Group, my department, the Department of Health and the Education Authority are in discussions regarding the deployment of AHPs, including Occupational Therapists, to support children with SEN in education settings.

Work will be undertaken in due course to increase the number of AHPs and protected posts, subject to additional budget being identified.