Council slammed for rigid policy preventing staff from administering emergency medication to disabled children.
The mom, Ms. D, felt arrangements were inconsistent. Her child, J, took a bus some days, but she took J herself other days. J needs medication if they have a seizure.
The council’s policy says staff can’t give emergency meds. The council offered J a bus space all week, and staff would call an ambulance if needed. Ms. D was unhappy and complained.
Councils don’t have to give emergency meds, but they must consider each case. They must justify their arrangements, and the council’s policy is too rigid.
The council should decide case by case. It should not just refuse medication, as this blanket approach is unfair to children. The council didn’t consider J’s needs.
They gave no clear reason for their transport offer. This caused Ms. D frustration and uncertainty, and the problem stems from the flawed medication policy.
The ombudsman told the council to apologize to Ms. D. They also need to review school transport for J, and the council must change its SEND transport policy.
Kate Stock, a councillor, stated they take child safety seriously. They work to meet all children’s needs, and she confirmed they accept the findings. They will work with families to fix issues.