Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is a build-up of fluid on the brain, putting pressure on the brain which can cause damage. If brain damage is caused, various symptoms, with a range of severity, can develop such as headaches, being sick, poor vision and coordination.

Hydrocephalus can develop at birth, shortly afterwards or when the child is older (even an adult). Currently the main form of treatment is surgery so that the fluid is diverted elsewhere in the body.

Hydrocephalus is primarily a medical need and is likely to be a disability within the meaning of the Equality Act 2010. Depending on the impact it has, and whether any brain damage is caused, it may also result in special educational needs (SEN).

In these cases, special educational needs advice should be sought as soon as possible to establish the level of support that is needed and consideration given to whether support at SEN additional support is sufficient or whether an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is required.