Under Section 19 of the Education Act 1996, local authorities have a duty to arrange suitable education for children of compulsory school age who are unable to attend school because of illness, exclusion or other exceptional circumstances.
Before we can decide whether this duty applies, we must consider the available evidence relating to a child's ability to access education.
In line with the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman’s guidance, Supporting Children Out of School (October 2025), we will request and review appropriate medical or professional evidence where it is claimed that a child cannot attend school because of a health condition.
If you believe your child is unable to attend school because of a physical or mental health condition, you should first ask your child's school to make a referral to us.
All referrals are considered by a multi-professional panel that meets regularly to review the evidence and assess each case individually.
Parents and carers are encouraged to provide any relevant supporting information, such as medical reports, consultant letters, CAMHS documents or other professional assessments.
Where the evidence shows that a child is unable to access education and the criteria under Section 19 are met, we will work with families and schools to arrange appropriate educational support as quickly as possible.
If you have any questions, please contact the admissions team:
- Telephone: 020 8379 5501
- Email: esas@enfield.gov.uk