Health & Schools
Designated Clinical Officers (DCO’s) are the point of contact for local authorities, schools and colleges seeking health advice on children and young people who may have SEN or disabilities. They can support schools with their duties under the ‘ Supporting Pupils with Medical Conditions’ guidance.
Health professionals (for example school or specialist nurses and therapists) may work directly with your child/young person and advise or train settings to manage health conditions such as epilepsy and diabetes, or with techniques such as tube feeding, in schools.
The role of the School Nurse
The specialist school nurse works with school staff to ensure all children’s health needs can be supported when they are in school. This enables all children to access education and achieve their full potential, even if they have complex health needs.
You can read more about the role of the school nurse from the Essex Family Wellbeing Service
Find out more about Supporting Medical Needs
Also in this section:
The Definition of SEN and Disabilities
Explaining SEN and disabilities and overlaps between the two
Supporting your Neurodiverse Child
The Essex Family Forum have written and produced a pack which is full of useful information for families with a neurodiverse child.
Identifying Needs
Identifying Needs and who to talk to
Getting a diagnosis
Seeking a diagnosis and the diagnostic pathway in Essex
Getting the Most Out of a Paediatrician appointment
Before an appointment, it can be helpful to make notes about your observations and any points you want to raise
Health Element of an EHC Plan
Guidance on the information the LA will seek around your child’s health needs.