The new booklet is a resource for teachers and school staff, providing them with general information about diabetes and tips about managing the condition in the school environment.
It covers key facts, including the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, as well as sections on using insulin, diet and carbohydrates, exercise and blood glucose testing. Information on hypoglycaemia, hyperglycaemia, stress and communication are also included.
A legal duty for schools in England to support youngsters with long-term health conditions, including Type 1 diabetes, was introduced at the beginning of the 2014/15 school year.
Under the Children and Families Act 2014, schools need to have a medical conditions policy in place, along with an individual healthcare plan for any children with Type 1 diabetes.
In response, the Parents Passport for Schools was launched in May 2015 and so far more than 7,000 copies have been sent out.
It provides a means by which parents can formally let schools know how to manage their child’s diabetes and in turn support schools to comply with SEN regulations, as well as informing teachers about the condition. The latest publication is designed to work alongside the passport.