Call for better support in schools for children with health conditions

Five children with a range of health conditions have petitioned Downing Street to ask for improved support at school.

Around one million children and young people with health conditions are not receiving adequate support to manage their condition at school and are not being fully included in lessons and activities. A lack of training and support for school staff means that the needs of these young people are not always met and they miss out academically and socially.
To tackle this issue, Jim Cunningham MP has put forward the Schools (Health Support) Bill which aims to ensure:
Schools are required to produce and implement medical conditions policies – in line with current guidance and best practice.
School staff receive appropriate support and training to support children with health conditions.
NHS bodies, local authorities and primary care trusts help schools fulfil their responsibilities.
School inspections also look at how a school supports children with health conditions.
Every child with a health condition has an individual healthcare plan.