Good communication between parents / carers and schools is essential when a child has an acute or chronic medical condition.

An individual health care plan is a really helpful tool for making sure everyone has the right information. The plan should be reviewed and updated regularly. 

What is an Individual healthcare plan?

An individual health care plan is a document that records important information about a child's medical condition, symptoms, and the support they need to  make the most of school.

It includes medication and any side effects, what to do in an emergency and who is involved in the medical care of the child.

The plan can also include adjustments and alternative arrangements that need to be made so that a child can participate as fully as possible in school life, e.g. arrangements for PE or what to consider when going on a school trip.

The best individual care plans has the child or young persons views at the centre. They should be part of the discussion when the plan is drawn up. As a child gets older, they will take more control of their care and this should be reflected in the IHP. 

Why is an individual healthcare plan important?

The individual health care plan is all about making sure a child gets the very best out of school.

The child/ young person, parents/carers, medical professionals and schools working together will be more effective at drawing up an effective plan. Central to the plan will be the child’s individual needs and solutions to any barriers preventing them from fully engaging in school life.

Administering medicine

School staff do not have a legal duty to administer medicines, but when staff do, the school must ensure that they are trained appropriately