Once an Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP) has been created, how do you actually turn this document into practice?
We know this can often be the most challenging element of having an Individual Healthcare Plan in place. We asked a group of young people which of them felt really supported, included and understood at school, and one young man put us in touch with his school who are doing exactly that!
We spoke to the Student Wellbeing & Attendance Officer at his secondary school, who has shared her top 10 tips for putting an IHP into practice in school.
As a Student Wellbeing Officer, my primary focus is to ensure that all students receive the support they need to thrive both academically and personally within the school environment.
Through careful planning and communication processes, we can create a nurturing atmosphere that caters to the diverse needs of every student, including those with medical conditions.
1. Engage with parents and ensure open communication
The foundation of student support is built on strong communication between the school, parents, and students. It’s crucial to keep parents engaged and informed and for them to also update the school with any concerns or changes. This triangle of communication helps to create a supportive network around each student, ensuring that they feel secure and understood from all sides.
2. Empower your staff with confidence
To support students, staff members must feel confident and informed. At the beginning of each term, distribute IHPs to relevant staff along with resources for additional training. This preparation enables teachers and support staff to respond effectively to the unique needs of each student.
3. Maintain regular updates
Ongoing internal communication with staff regarding the student’s welfare is key. Regular updates via email that include any changes in the student's condition help keep all staff members in the loop and prepared to provide the necessary support.
4. Keep IHPs digital
IHPs should be dynamic documents that are easily accessible and updatable. By integrating them into your school’s Information Management System, such as SIMS or Satchel, and attaching them to each student’s profile, staff can access vital information instantly, ensuring timely and effective responses to any situation.
5. IHPs on the move
While IHPs should mainly be stored digitally, it’s necessary to have printed copies for certain situations like school trips. Any staff attending school trips with a student with epilepsy should be aware of their IHP and how to support them, so they can join in like everyone else.
6. Stay proactive about changes
Before each school year begins, touch base with parents to confirm any updates or changes to their child’s medical conditions or IHP. This proactive approach prevents oversights and ensures all information is current. Remember that epilepsy symptoms can change rapidly, anti-seizure medication can have strong side effects, and it can take a while to get the right balance of medication, so ongoing communication is key.
Check our our training courses for teachers.
7. Introduce new staff to students with an IHP
Add a current photo of each student with an IHP to their profile to help new staff members recognise and familiarise themselves with these students. Take time to meet with new staff so they know the procedures, where medication is stored, who to ask or alert, and how to report seizures. A proactive meeting will help bring confidence to staff, and make the student feel more supported. Good communication will make a significant difference in providing personalised care right from the start of the term.
8. Create a dedicated medical team email group
Establish an urgent email group that includes first aiders and other relevant staff to streamline communication effectively during medical situations. Quick and efficient communication can often make a big difference in response times and getting help to students who need it.
9. Consider a Personal Learning Zone
For students dealing with medical conditions or mental health issues, a Personal Learning Zone can offer a quiet, safe space to continue their studies away from the usual classroom and work environment. This zone should be a place where students can feel secure and supported while managing their health needs.
10. Do you have a work phone?
Think about the benefits of using a work mobile to enhance communication channels with both parents and students. Students are often more comfortable seeking help via text, especially in sensitive situations. For example, if they are feeling anxious and may have locked themselves in the bathroom. A dedicated work mobile allows for timely check-ins and concise information sharing.
Could you adopt any of these tips to help children and young people in your school feel supported and to ensure they are included and able to thrive in school?
