Diabetes

Diabetes is a medical condition which results in a person’s blood sugar level becoming too high.

There are 2 type of diabetes:

• Type 1 – this usually develops at a young age. It is a result of the body not producing enough insulin which controls the level of sugar in the blood. This is managed by insulin injections. 

• Type 2 – this is more common in adults. It is because the body does not make enough insulin or cannot use it properly. This is controlled by a healthy diet, although insulin injections may become necessary.

Whilst diabetes is known for having a medical impact, it can also cause educational needs due to tiredness and blurred vision as well as associated difficulties with attention, processing speed and memory. Pupils may also have periods out of school for medical appointments. We find that the most common successful management of diabetes is an agreed action plan prepared by the school with advice from medics and involving parents. This support is normally called for via the Equality Act 2010.

Diabetes is a disability and may result in special educational needs (SEN). In our experience, it is very rare for diabetes to present such a significant impact to education, on its own, to require the additional support of a Statement of SEN or Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).