Make it a legal requirement for all severe learning disability (SLD) SEND specialist schools to have a qualified learning disability nurse on site during school hours to safely support pupils with complex medical and care needs.

Children with learning disabilities often have multiple and complex health conditions and are at significantly higher risk of conditions such as epilepsy. NHS England’s Learning Disabilities Mortality Review (LeDeR) programme shows people with learning disabilities are more likely to die from avoidable causes. Many children in SLD schools require support with feeding, medication and seizures. Without a qualified nurse on site, responsibility could fall to non-medical staff. We believe this increases risk and could delay essential care.