The Government has announced a package of support worth nearly £45m to provide additional help for children with special educational needs and disabilities.

Minister for children and families Robert Goodwill said the extra funding for councils and other organisations would enable them to continue transforming specialist provision and 'put families at the heart of the system'.

He said a further £9.7m fund has been set up to create new supported internships, helping to bridge the gap for some of the most vulnerable young people between education and employment.

Mr Goodwill said: 'Councils are making encouraging progress, but there is still work to be done to fully embed this improved system across education, health and care sectors.

'That’s why I am pleased to announce this additional investment for councils and other groups who have been instrumental in getting us to this positive stage.'

Annamarie Hassall, director of practice and programmes at the National Children’s Bureau, said: 'The funding announced today will help more children with disabilities and special educational needs get the support they need to live normal lives in their home communities.

'In particular, we welcome funding for internships, which will provide young people with valuable work experience as they make the transition to adulthood.'