Ear Defenders Aren’t the Problem — Misunderstanding Is

Today’s comments from Reform UK’s deputy leader about children with SEN have raised some important conversations as well as some real concerns.

At Empower OT, we work with schools every day to create environments where children with additional needs can genuinely thrive. So when public figures describe things like ear defenders as “insane” or imply that neurodivergent children are being “overdiagnosed,” it’s important to pause and reflect on what actually matters: children’s access to learning and their mental health and well-being.

For many pupils, sensory tools such as ear defenders aren’t trends or labels — they’re simple, evidence-based adjustments that allow them to participate meaningfully in the classroom. Sadly ,more often that not, teens and older children that I work with STILL don't feel comfortable wearing discreet ear defenders like Loops because of the stigma that remains around being dferent to their peers or other adults. A stigma that Reforms Deputy Leader has harmfully contributed to today.

Likewise, assessments aren’t about “gaming the system”; they’re about understanding a child’s profile so the right support can be put in place so every child can access their right to an education.

What we see, every day, is that when children receive the right adjustments early on, outcomes improve — not just for those pupils, but for the whole school community.

This is why conversations about SEND need to be grounded in empathy, accurate understanding, and collaboration. Teachers, therapists, families, and leadership teams all want the same thing: a school system where every child can learn effectively, safely, and with dignity.

At Empower OT, we remain focused on supporting schools to build exactly that — through practical training, sensory-informed strategies, and clear, strengths-based approaches that work for real classrooms.

If anyone would like resources or guidance on how to make schools more accessible for neurodivergent learners, we’re always happy to help.