Ofsted’s January report said delays in assessments had a significant impact on children’s outcomes.

The number of assessments completed in 20 weeks increased from 5% a year ago to 32% in September.

Reid said investment in staff was increasing numbers, although demand was steadily increasing.

“It’s not where we want to be and we have to do much better,” he said.

“I’m glad things are getting better and it shows in the responses we’re getting from families.”

The national audit office, external recently reported that the Send system was “broken” and financially unstable in the long term.

Suffolk Parent Carers Forum, externala group that supports SEND families in the county, welcomed the investment in staff.

However, she said she continued to see poor staff interaction with families. and bad evaluations that come from the council.

They asked that new staff receive “effective and appropriate” training.