O’Dowd welcomes publication of ‘What Diabetes Care to Expect in Schools’

Education Minister John O'Dowd has welcomed the publication of a new booklet ‘What Diabetes Care to Expect in Schools.’

The booklet produced by the Education Authority in association with Diabetes UK and the Health and Social Care Trusts provides information on the diabetes care parents can expect when their child attends school.

Speaking at the launch of the booklet at Loughview Integrated Primary School in Castlereagh, the Minister said:

“Across the school population there are approximately 1120 children with Type 1 Diabetes.  This booklet explains the support that parents of children with diabetes can expect when their child attends school.  This includes important information on the roles of parents and school staff in relation to individual healthcare plans, insulin administration and glucose testing and what to do in an emergency.   

 Diabetes is a lifelong condition and it needs to be managed.  However, with the correct support, there is no reason why a child with diabetes cannot participate fully in school life and enjoy the same opportunities as their peers.

 The publication of this booklet is very welcome and will assist in addressing the concerns experienced by many parents of children with diabetes.”

Brendan Heaney of Diabetes UK said:

“This is an excellent new resource for use in all schools. With Type 1 diabetes steadily rising and touching the lives of more and more families across the country, parents and schools will need this support. There is no cure for diabetes yet, but there is a lot of evidence of what works well to support children, families and schools to manage the condition and keep children healthy and well.”

Notes to editors: 

1. What Diabetes Care To Expect In Schools is available on the Education Authority website.
2. This booklet should be used in conjunction with Supporting Pupils With Medication Needs.
3. The Department and the Minister are committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues to lead and support the implementation of the Executive’s public health framework Making Life Better
4. The Department of Education’s ‘Education Works’ campaign promotes the value of education. This year’s campaign aims to ensure that parents have information on schooling and that they are aware of the steps they can take to ‘Get Involved’ and support their teenager in achieving good outcomes at school. Watch out for the ads on television, radio and outdoor locations. The campaign highlights the vital role families can play in helping children do well at school and improve their life chances. Visit nidirect for more information or watch the TV ad on the Department’s YouTube channel.
5. See photos from the Department of Education in our Flickr collection.
6. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 99 715 440, and your call will be returned.

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