Admission to adult mental health wards for under 18's - adaptation for Scotland: guidance

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When a young person's stay is more than five days, there are procedures in place to support their ongoing education and ensure their learning programme is maintained.

Note: If a young person's stay is expected to be longer than one week, their educational or learning needs should be considered shortly after admission.

Note: For those with Learning Disability, continuing access to education is crucial. School staff often have key knowledge and experience of the young person's communication and daily routines that can be invaluable to the ward staff. Continuity with the child attending their school from the ward, or school staff attending the ward regularly can be very helpful.

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Ward staff are able to access an education officer for the young person, who is available to discuss their educational or learning needs and advise on accessing further learning opportunities.

Note: This applies to all young people including those who are no longer in full-time education.

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Young people are consulted about their learning needs and this is reviewed on a regular basis.

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Young people in formal education have a named professional who takes responsibility for liaising with the young person's place of education.

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Young people not in education or who are over school leaving age are encouraged to engage in a learning activity.

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Educational or learning activity programmes are developed in consultation with the young person and is based on their individual needs.

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Educational or learning activity programmes include life skills that young people will need when they leave hospital (e.g. opening a bank account or applying for housing).

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Young people have access to a study space in a quiet area to support their educational or learning activities.

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Young people have access to appropriate educational or learning materials and facilities (e.g. computer, desk, books, paper, staff at their school or college, and exams).