In any year there are 100,000 children and young people in this country who require education outside school because of illness or injury. In addition to this there are a significant number of children and young people who suffer from mental health problems. In Darlington we support about 50 – 100 children, young people and their families who have medical needs. The main aim of our service is to support pupils and their families and reduce the disruption to their normal schooling by continuing education as normally as the medical need will allow.
The Dcfs, in collaboration with the department of health have produced guidance "Access to education for children and Young people with medical needs" .
If your child is likely to be absent from school for more that 15 days because of medical needs or has a chronic condition which results in recurring absence, your school will:
1. Notify the Local Authority and Education Welfare Service.
2. Let the Home and Hospital service know about the work your child is likely to miss at school.
3. The Home and Hospital Service will then develop a personal education plan to support
your child.
4. Arrange and deliver an appropriate teaching programme.
5. Prepare a reintegration plan and ensure support continues to be available during this time.
Marie Mills manages the Home and Hospital Teaching Service in Darlington.
She can be contacted by e-mail marie.mills@darlington.gov.uk