Countryfile fans issue same complaint over segment and brand it political
Parent discusses lack of SEN provision in Devon
Many fans tuned in to this week’s Countryfile took to social media to complain one segment wasn’t specific to “the countryside,” and accused the BBC show of staggering into “political” topics.
Tom Heap explained how families across the country are struggling to get the support they need for their child, particularly in rural areas.
He stated: “The number of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is rising dramatically.
“Across the UK, there are nearly two million children who need additional support in education.
“And how easy it is to get that support can vary significantly.”
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He continued: “A lot of councils report issues with funding, especially in rural areas,” before he met one Devon family who have been impacted.
Tom met 10-year-old Rupert and his parents, Scott and Emily.
The youngster had started to struggle with loud noises in the classroom and has been unable to attend school regularly for two years despite being diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Emily explained how Rupert needed to have a safe space provided for him at school, but many rural schools don’t have the room or the staff to equip classrooms with additional support.
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“I think a lot of people, were they not in a rural area, would perhaps move their child to a bigger school that has those provisions in place,” Emily pointed out.
“However, because of where we live we are stuck where we are with this school.
“As a family, it feels like our entire life has stopped, we have to put our needs on hold to fill in the gaps where the service isn’t meeting his needs.”
However, some argued this was an issue affecting areas all over Britain, not just the countryside.
Taking to X, @There4USee penned: “#Countryfile why are you reporting about ALN provision in schools? In my opinion, this has nothing to do with the countryside – rather it is giving a platform for privileged parents to make a political statement.”
@antrojak fumed: “Can we have something about the countryside please? #Countryfile.”
“@BBCCountryfile Interesting that this National SEND dilemma is on CountryFile. They’re talking about cupboards being used for SEND provision. This isn’t just a problem in rural schools, but is a real concern in the majority of schools nationwide,” @Molly6063 shared.
@DanielSparks1 complained: “#countryfile should be called political file. Loads of @BBCNews c**p.”
@MJW_F1 added: “I thought this was Countryfile? Seems to be another political programme #countryfile.”
However, others disagreed and applauded the programme for highlighting the issue.
@makedoandSEND wrote: “Thank you @BBCOne for showing the national #SEND crisis on #Countryfile. Access to education, social & health care must stop being a postcode lottery.”
Responding to criticism, @thekatecole replied: “Which of the articles hasn’t had a connection to people in the countryside?”
Countryfile continues on Sunday at 5.20pm on BBC Two.
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