Leading health charity urging schools in Wales to be more 'asthma aware'
Asthma + Lung UK Cymru says they want children with asthma to feel safer and more supported
By becoming ‘Asthma Aware’, Asthma + Lung UK Cymru says, schools will become better equipped with the knowledge and skills to 'support and empower' young people with asthma.
The charity says they want children with asthma to feel safer and more supported to take part in all school activities.
They're also urging education staff to have a better understanding of the condition so parents can feel reassured that the school are inclusive.
Over 40,000 children under the age of 16 in Wales are living with asthma
Asthma + Lung UK Cymru is urging schools across Wales to:
- Create an asthma policy that is reviewed every year
- Improve staff understanding of how asthma affects the school, including identifying a named asthma lead/s, arranging asthma training and creating a register of children with asthma
- Learn how to support every child with asthma including having a copy of their current asthma action plan at school
- Ensure every child has their own reliever inhaler which is easily assessable, and staff recording when children use medication (whenever possible) and share this information with parents
- Improve understanding of asthma in the school's community by supporting pupils to understand their asthma, using written resources or encouraging contact with their healthcare professional
Bec Miller, Policy and Public Affairs Officer Asthma + Lung UK Cymru, said:
“Asthma + Lung UK Cymru is already working with 18 schools across Wales through its Clean Air Champions programme, but with over 40,000 children living with asthma, we are very keen to expand it, so even more children can benefit.
“The Asthma Fit programme shows that together, we can build an educational support network to help children live well with asthma, keeping them out of hospital and in the classroom.”
Deborah Waddell, Paediatric Respiratory Specialist Nurse, said:
“Every child or young person has the right to feel safe at school. Our Asthma Fit resources are designed to help schools to understand asthma and provide the best possible support and care.
“Being Asthma Fit shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of children and young people with asthma. It’s achievable and ensures the school is a safe, inclusive, supportive environment, where pupils are heard, understood and encouraged to reach their potential.”