Alternative provision

[Sara2000]

Dd age 15 is having a very difficult time with her mental health. Anxiety levels through the roof, self harming etc.. We have CAMHs involved. She has had 7 days off already and unless there is a miracle over the weekend I dont see her being any better next week. I want her in school as shes doing GCSEs but I am starting to think this might not happen. I have been reading about other provision such as medical tuition which maybe better for DD in the short term. I understand the LA have to organise this once she has more than 15 days off but my LA want a letter from a consultant psychiatrist. How am I supposed to get that when the waiting list to see the psychiatrist is so long? We have been told it will be months. My GP hasn't been involved apart from the initial CAMHS referall so I dont think I can ask him. I may not need this option, but if I do I dont want DD losing months of education.

Paragraph 12 makes it clear LAs should consider other evidence, including from the GP, if consultant evidence isn't quickly available. Your LA may need this pointing out to them. You could book a telephone appointment with the GP and email the school SENCO to try to get evidence from both. Even though you haven't had much contact with the GP it would be a good idea to bring them up to speed, get something official in writing as part of DD's notes incase it is needed later as evidence and directly ask them to support an application for EOTAS if needed. They can also inform CAMHS DD has deteriorated which may move DD up the waiting list.

As soon as it becomes apparent DD will be absent for more than 15 days the LA become responsible, you do not need to wait until day 16 if it is clear DD won't be back before then.

Alongside medical needs tuition consider submitting a parental request for an EHCNA.

Thank you. I am jumping the gun because although DD has had issues to date, she has never been this bad. I just want to prepare myself as a friend mentioned the 15 day bit and I realised that could be under a month from now if the situation doesnt change. We have been seen by the psychologist for CAMHs but are now on another waiting list to see the psychiatrist. I find the system so baffling. Shes suicidal and self harming and yet we have had one screening appointment and now have to wait month to see a psychiatrist.

I meant 'months'

If DD has been assessed by CAMHS, if needed, the LA should accept evidence from them whatever member of the MDT she has seen. You may have to push though, and remind them requiring evidence from a consultant psychiatrist is unnecessary when it will delay matters and that blanket policies are unlawful.

Don't be afraid of contacting the crisis team.

@Sara2000 Take a look at Not Fine in School. They have an excellent website with good information guides that clearly advise as to your entitlements!

Thank you for this tip. I have spent most of the afternoon on there.

@Sara2000 Awesome, I am really happy! ((Hugs)) it is really stressful!