Key Worker categories

[Cluele55]

So my application has been refused. I'm a single parent and a nurse, but as DDs dad has parental responsibility they have said he needs to have her. DDs dad doesn't have a bedroom for her, he doesn't have regular contact and he lives over 2 hours away. Packing her off there is not an option but school will not have it as he has legal parental responsibility. I have pleaded and begged but got a very cold response saying they aren't actually obligated to open at all.

I realise these are desperate times and everyone is doing what they can, but I feel completely stuck now and at a loss. Also thinking of other parents who may have put dads on birth certificates initially, but no longer have any contact or there has been violence. This cannot be OK surely?

Ring your LEA and see what they say.

I'm sure schools are obligated to open- the guidelines from the Gov. are that any child with a parent who is a key worker can send their children to school. I work in a school and that is what we're doing- especially for lone parents as well!

I wouldn't let it go- contact the local authority!

That's a good plan! I tried my MP but not had a response as yet, which is understandable as he's likely been inundated. Will hunt for the LEA number. Thank you

Contact the press! Put it on Facebook! You're prepared to put your own health on the line to save others (thank you so much) you deserve all the help you can get. Good luck

LEA has gone home early. The lady I spoke to at switch said that she doesn't think they'd be able to help anyway. Great

Is it an academy?

I'm not sure to be honest. It's a C of E school so not sure if that comes under similar to an academy?

I would call the DfE helpline - its 0800 046 8687 and is open until 6pm

I have been classed as a keyworker by my school - also a lone parent and although my dcs dad does live nearby, he's refusing to have them at his house. the school didn't ask me about him though.

I agree you need to take it up with LEA. In our area they are looking at how many people need support - forms have been sent to parents to fill in - and then the Council will put provision in place when they know what's needed. There's some stop-gap provision for next week while they get organised. I think they're unlikely to keep all schools open and are looking at setting up local hubs where all the kids from one area can go to.

I would refer them to the guidance www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-maintaining-educational-provision/guidance-for-schools-colleges-and-local-authorities-on-maintaining-educational-provision
As they should be providing a place in your situation however I would also try the LEA, they may be amalgamating some schools so that they can react appropriately

Only one parent needs to be an essential worker however they would like you if you can (you can't) keep children at home it is not up to the school to decide on your behalf.
Both our nursery and school have phoned us and asked if we wanted to take up our place however I have declined as I can look after them whilst dad is at the hospital and I'm working from home and we'd rather we did our bit to limit the spread
The LEA should clarify this with them if they are being reluctant unfortunately I guess you'll have to wait til Monday to speak to them.

@AndNoneForGretchenWieners thanks for the number!!

DfE have essentially said they cannot do that. I just said that they are, so what can I do? He went and got his manager who said I need to go over their head to the LEA on Monday morning. So that's a weekend of uncertainty but I will be sending the head an email telling her what I've been told and that I will he contacting the LEA.

Thanks so much everyone.