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

What is an IHP?

An individual healthcare plan is a document that records important information about your childs medical condition, sypmtons, and the support they need to get the best out of school. 

The plan will list medication requirements and any side effects. This is important, so school are aware of anything that may affect how your child can participate in school life or if side effects may make learning more challenging. For example, some medications may cause tiredness or affect memory.

The plan should include any adjustments or alternative arrangements that need to be made so your child can particaipate fully in school life. For examples arrangements for PE or the need for a toilet or life pass. 

Arrangements for school trips and any off site visits should also be documented. With all the information in one place it should be easier for staff at school to plan for up and coming trips, doing their best to be inclusive of all students. 

Why is an IHP Important?

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

The best IHPs are produced when the child, parent/carers, health professionals and school staff work together. 

As a parent/carer alongside your child you will be an expert in managing your child's medical condition. Your child's experience of living with the condition is unique to them so it's important you are part of planning for life at school. School staff will want to know how they can best manage the condition so your child can fully engage in school life. Your child's medical team can provide important information on ensuring your child is safe, they may also be able to offer information and training that will help school staff feel more confident with a condition that's new to them or if your child is newly diagnosed. 

Parents and carers, the child, medical professionals and schools working together will be better at making a plan that finds solutions to any barriers preventing them from fully engaging in school life. 

Keeping plans up to date

It's really important to keep the IHP up to date. If there are any changes to medication or treatment let school know as soon as possible. If your chaild has a hospital admission or needs time at home because of their condition, arrange a meeting before they go back to school to up date the IHP and pass on anything you feel is important for school to know.