Access Compass guide

Individual Healthcare Plans (IHPs) and managing medical needs at school

Learn how to create a personalised healthcare plan for your child's medical condition and ensure schools fulfil their duties.

Who it's for: Parents & carers, Professionals

Not yet verified Last checked 16 Jul 2026. Always confirm details with the service before relying on them.

Step by step

Identify the need for an IHP

If your child's medical condition requires support, treatment, medication or changes during the education day, ask the school whether an Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP) is needed. An IHP is specific to the child and sets out the support, responsibilities and emergency steps; a diagnosis alone does not define the plan.
Request a meeting

Ask your child's SENCo or headteacher for a meeting with you and relevant health professionals to draft the IHP. Use the Department for Education's templates for healthcare plans and parental consent to administer medicine. Bring medical letters and care plans.
Agree training and responsibilities

The plan should state who will administer medicine, store medication, and call emergency services if needed. Staff must receive appropriate training from healthcare professionals (for example, on adrenaline auto-injectors or epilepsy rescue medication) and training dates should be recorded.
Review and update the plan

Review the IHP at least annually or whenever your child's needs change. Ensure the school keeps a record of medicine administration and that staff remain trained. For complex conditions, link the IHP to your child's EHCP or school behaviour plan.