Minutes:
Phil Nartey, Moving and Handling Co-ordinator, gave a presentation on how children who require moving and handling were supported in Rotherham schools.
The presentation covered the following information:-
- Is your school fully prepared to provide support?
- What is needed
- Early Warning Systems
- Early contact with the schools
- Making the transition a smooth one
- Risk Assessment Form
- Risk Assessment for Special Educational Needs
- Inclusive Design/Work with Building Managers/Equipment
- Training/Basic Training Package/Guidelines and Legislation
- Staggered Visits
- Assisting school to develop guidelines
- Review/Monitor/Re-evaluate
Phil explained that in order to make the transition as smooth as possible, a process had been developed to allow professionals to meet, gather information and plan to try to meet the needs of the child prior to their entry, so that an early start could then be made on any necessary changes to buildings, or in the procurement of equipment.
The meeting raised the following questions:-
- Who paid for electronic hoists?
Initially equipment was supplied through the LEA, together with a package of care. Schools would then be expected to meet maintenance costs thereafter.
- Some schools were two-storey and there were areas which were inaccessible.
It was agreed that not all schools were adaptable. It would take a long time to address this but the environmental risk assessment would enable the school, and professionals involved, to look at that school’s facilities in relation to the child’s needs. Cluster areas were looked at so that, within the child’s catchments area, an alternative school, better able to meet the needs of that child, could be considered.
One member commented on the problem of disabled parents being unable to access parts of school premises which it was felt should be looked at. This was particularly relevant on parents’ evenings.
It was explained that the school and their individual Building Manager would work together in identifying access issues on a regular basis.
- What support was given to a child on the journey to and from school who may require lifting into a taxi, for example?
Some of the Special Schools have had discussions with the transport department who it was believed were looking at purchasing training packages for drivers and escorts.
Phil Nartey would be prepared to give assistance in any way he could.
One member referred to work carried out through the Access Liaison User Group and the work with taxi drivers on lifting and handling. Whilst funding for this training to continue had ceased, it had been pursued through the Licensing Department. The Access Wheelchair User Group is keen to work with professionals on this matter.
- How are the needs met of a child from outside the Authority?
Current systems work best when there is time to plan for this. However, a speedier system is needed for when a pupil moves into the borough at short notice.
The Cabinet Member, Education, Culture and Leisure Services suggested a need to raise this via the Children’s Board forum in order to speed up a flow of information to allow this very good process to be improved.
Resolved:- That Phil Nartey be thanked for an interesting and informative presentation.