Exclusive:Council cuts to impact teaching staff at Edinburgh's Sick Kids hospital

Cuts to services for vulnerable youngsters in Edinburgh could impact “lifeline” teaching staff based at the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, it has emerged.

Campaigners have raised concerns on social media about the “disgraceful” move, which they say would remove teachers from the Sick Kids hospital.

Currently a small team of council-employed staff are based at the site in Little France, to support youngsters continue their learning when they are expected to be inpatients for more than five days.

It comes as council officials draw up plans for a £4 million cut from “inclusion” spending, which is expected to lead to reductions in support staff for vulnerable youngsters.

The measures are being considered as Edinburgh City Council tries to reduce spending by £30m in 2025/26, followed by a further £80m of cuts over the next three years.

On social media, the campaign group ASN Reform Scotland said: “If this proposal is accepted, responsibility for educating children in hospital or those unable to attend school due to health reasons would fall solely on the class teacher from the child’s usual school.

“This would likely result in teachers allocating work for parents to complete with their children, on top of everything else parents are already juggling. It’s a disgraceful situation that shows how little respect CEC (City of Edinburgh Council) has for the rights and wellbeing of children in need.

“How on Earth will these children receive an education? For many, having teachers in hospital is a lifeline, ensuring they don't fall behind in their learning during a time when they are already facing significant challenges.

Edinburgh's new Sick Kids Hospital at Little France Picture: Scott Louden. | NW

“This proposal threatens that vital support and leaves parents and carers to bear the burden of something that should be the responsibility of our education system. This is shameful and unacceptable. We urge everyone to take action and respond to this consultation.”

Councillor Joan Griffiths, education, children and families convener, said: “We are currently conducting an internal review of how our Additional Support for Learning Services are delivered with a vision of improving the support offered and strengthening partnerships within learning communities.

“The outcome of the consultation may mean some changes to how staff teams are managed, but it will not mean a reduction in support for children or young people who require it.

“Children who are unable to attend school due to ill health, including those who are in hospital, will continue to be provided with education.

“As is the case at the moment, the nature of the education provision may vary depending on the setting (for example at home or in hospital), the type and severity of illness etc, but will as far as is practicably possible, will maintain the child or young person's learning and key relationships.

“I understand that while the review is ongoing, parents and carers may wonder about how the changes will affect their child(ren).

“I wish to reassure them that our over-riding ambition is to deliver a better service in line with the GIRFEC framework. All review feedback will continue to be considered before final decisions are made.”