Overview of the Pilot
The National Nursing Programme Pilot for Children with Complex Healthcare Needs is a nationwide pilot scheme to be run in partnership between HSE and NCSE. The pilot is to be evaluated and the outcome will inform the provision of nursing support for students with complex healthcare needs into the future.
HSE Primary Care currently funds Paediatric Home Care Packages (PHCPs), through which preferred private healthcare providers deliver nursing care in the home environment to children with complex healthcare needs.
The pilot nursing scheme will, for eligible students, extend the PHCP from their home into the school setting. This will allow a nurse from a preferred private healthcare provider procured by the HSE through a framework contract attend school with the student for an agreed number of hours per week, and travel to and from school with them, if necessary. There are other eligibility criteria for students and schools.
Many schools, in particular special schools, currently have nurses on site funded through a variety of arrangements. The pilot service will not displace existing nursing services or supports in schools.
Making an Application
If a school receives a request for nursing support under this scheme, they should contact their local SENO for advice, guidance and to request a password-protected application form.
The school is responsible for making the submission to NCSE on behalf of the child.
The application process will confirm the eligibility of the student for the scheme, determine the number of nursing hours for their support, identify other school supports needed, and confirm that ring-fenced capacity is available. A transition and ongoing review process will facilitate the student’s transition into school and monitor their progress.
The form contains different three sections, all of which must be completed and signed before submission:
- Section A: for completion by school
- Section B for completion by HSE
- Section C for completion by parent/guardian.
The completed password-protected form should emailed to: NursingSupport@NCSE.ie. A hardcopy, signed form should be posted to NCSE. The form provides further guidance on its submission.
Communications and support
Communications with schools in relation to the pilot scheme will be coordinated by the local SENO. For contact information, please see our SENO Contact details page on the NCSE website. The SENO will provide further information about eligibility, applications and later steps in the process.
Information leaflets for Parents/Guardians, Schools and Healthcare Workers are available for download on this page.
