Suffolk’s Scheme for supporting children with complex health needs.
(SPLSAs - Specialist Learning Support Assistants)

This scheme was introduced in January 2006 in recognition of the increasing number of children with complex health needs who were not accessing formal education.
The service involves a Care Co-ordinator and a central team of specialist learning support assistants (SpLSAs) matched one-to-one with children with complex health needs who rely on technology for their survival. 

The team is part funded by education, health care and in some cases social care.

A pilot scheme was successful although there was awareness that in some situations the team was isolated.  It was decided that it was essential therefore to develop a network of support and supervision.
Following the pilot scheme, the Local Authority endorsed the development of a team of SpLSAs and a qualified children’s nurse to co-ordinate, train, assess and supervise the team (Care Co-ordinator and deputy Care Co-ordinator)

Evaluations of the service were undertaken in January 2007 and April 2010; the data we collected indicates that there has been a decrease in time spent out of school and an increase in levels of achievement.  Families feel much more supported and are confident that their children’s medical needs are being met. 
The team is now well established and confident, flexible and multi-skilled. They have established a mutually supportive organisation, which enables them to meet the unpredictable needs of the children regardless of where they are placed.

The Specialist Learning Support panel sits every three months to discuss new referrals.  Every case is reviewed every three months to ensure eligibility for Specialist Learning Support is still valid.

Kate Wood, Care Co-ordinator, Specialist Learning Support