LETTER: Diabetes helpline

But for parents whose children have type 1 diabetes, the summer holidays can be an anxious time as they look ahead to their child starting a new school in September.

In addition to the worries many parents might have about whether their child will fit in and establish good relationships with their class mates and teachers, if your child has type 1 diabetes you may also be concerned about their safety, and whether their new school will know how to help them manage their diabetes during their time there.

It is vital that schools provide support to children with type 1 diabetes to help them manage their condition effectively so that they can stay healthy and fully participate in school life.

A new law in England means all schools in the country now have a legal duty to ensure children with type 1 diabetes get the care they need in school, but some children still struggle to get this support and this can put their health at risk.

The Care in School Helpline provides parents of children and young people with type 1 diabetes with information and support about the care their child is entitled to receive at school.

The helpline, supported by our National Charity Partnership with Tesco, is staffed by volunteers who can provide information about children’s rights and can provide emotional support at what can be a stressful time for parents.

As we near the end of the school term, we’re encouraging parents in Sussex to contact the Care in School Helpline with any school-related concerns they have about their child and their type 1 diabetes.

To contact the Care in School Helpline, call 0345 123 2399 or go to www.diabetes.org.uk/care-in-school

Jill Steaton

Diabetes UK

South East Regional manager

• Want to share your views? Send your letters by email to [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected], or post them to Letters, Editorial, Cannon House, Chatsworth Road, Worthing, BN11 1NA. Remember to include your full name and address.

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