Health care plans
Information
Health and Care Plan Guidance
When to put a Health Care Plan in place for children with complex health needs.
Purpose of a Health and Care Plan (HCP)
A Health and Care Plan is a personalised document developed to ensure the safe and inclusive participation of children with complex medical needs in early years settings. It outlines how staff can safely support a child’s health needs, respond to emergencies, and work in partnership with families and health professionals.
When is a Health and Care Plan needed?
An HCP should be put in place when a child has a long-term or complex medical condition that may require:
- emergency treatment (e.g. anaphylaxis, seizures)
- regular medication during setting hours (e.g. inhalers, insulin)
- monitoring of symptoms or vital signs (e.g. diabetes, epilepsy)
- specific feeding, toileting, or personal care routines (e.g. PEG feeding)
- support with medical equipment (e.g. oxygen, suction machines)
A diagnosed medical condition where:
- there is a risk of emergency intervention being required
- the child needs close monitoring or adaptations to routines
- there are clear health-related needs that impact access to education and care
Related documents and resources
- Download: Complex Health and Care Plan (Word)
- Download: Contacting emergency services (Word)
- Download: Supporting children with complex health needs guidance (PDF)
- Supporting pupils with medical conditions at school from GOV.UK
- SEND Local Offer School Provision and Education Health Care Plans (EHCP)
Best practice tips
- review plans regularly – at least annually, or sooner if the child’s condition changes
- train all relevant staff in administering medication, emergency responses, and care protocols
- store medication securely and accessibly
- ensure all safeguarding and data protection procedures are followed
- work collaboratively with parents to build trust and ensure the child’s well being