A CONSULTATION on how children with diabetes should be treated in schools has been launched.

The Government consultation follows instances of parents being required to go into schools throughout the day to administer insulin.

Charity Diabetes UK is urging people in Hampshire to help improve the care available in schools for children with diabetes by taking part in the six-week consultation.

It has been launched following the publication of draft guidance into what all schools will be expected to do from September onwards to support children with conditions including diabetes, asthma and epilepsy.

Diabetes UK hopes that stronger guidance will be included in the final version of the guidance.

The charity claims that children are excluded from school activities, denied places on school trips and refused help with injecting insulin.

It also argues that getting the right support at school is vital for the health of children with diabetes.

Jill Steaton, South East regional manager for Diabetes UK, said: “This consultation offers a huge opportunity to help ensure that all children are able to fully participate in their education, both here in Hampshire and across the country.

“At the moment, some parents and carers are telling us that their children are being refused help with their insulin or are refused a snack to help treat low blood sugar levels.

“In some cases parents have even had to go into the school to administer insulin, which puts a huge strain, emotionally and financially, on their families.

“This is why we are urging everyone, and especially parents, carers and people affected by diabetes, in Hampshire to have their say.”

For more information, and to find a link to the consultation, visit www.diabetes.org.uk/make-the-grade.