Medicines in School
Most children* will, at some time, have medical needs that require a course of medication. Such needs may entail short-term medication (e.g. antibiotics), medication prescribed on a long-term basis (e.g. for epilepsy), or medication required in case of an emergency (e.g. severe allergic reactions).
Most children with medical needs can attend a school or setting regularly and take part in normal activities. Indeed, opportunities for attending a school or setting must be considered, in line with the Disability Discrimination Act (2005). Positive responses by schools and settings to a child’s medical needs will not only benefit the child directly, but can also positively influence the attitude of his/her peers.
The present policy outlines North Tyneside Council’s commitment to promoting and enabling all schools to:
- Review their current policies and procedures on administering and managing medicines.
- Put in place effective management systems to help support individual children who require the administration of medication.
- Meet the requirements of the Equality Duty (2011).
This policy should be read in conjunction with the following: ‘Managing Medicines in Schools and Early Years Settings DfES/DOH (2005) which provides detailed guidance on good practice; North Tyneside Council’s ‘Inclusive Education Strategy’ (2010-2015); The Equality Duty, ‘Schools and the Disability Equality Duty’, DRC (2006), National Service Framework for Children, Young People and Maternity Services : Standard 10, DOH (2006) the handbook ‘Managing Complex Health Needs’ in Schools and Early Years Settings’ (DfES/Council for Disabled Children (2007) and the guidance for schools and setting on supporting children and young people with toileting difficulties. This policy replaces the Council’s previous guidance Guidelines in the Administration of Medication to Pupils (2007).
*the term ‘Children’ used throughout this policy also includes young people.
