Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps he is taking to ensure vulnerable children receive pastoral support in the event of schools closing as a result of covid-19.

Supporting vulnerable children is a priority at this time. On Wednesday 18 March, my right hon. Friends, the Prime Minister and the Secretary of State for Education announced that schools will remain open for vulnerable children, alongside the children of critical workers. Vulnerable children include those who have a social worker and those with education, health and care plans. We want vulnerable children to continue to attend education settings so their pastoral needs can continue to be met.

In circumstances where a parent does not want to bring their child to an education setting, and their child is considered vulnerable, the social worker and education setting should explore the reasons for this, directly with the parent.

Social workers will remain in contact with vulnerable children and families throughout this challenging time, including remotely if needed.

The latest guidance for on support for vulnerable children and young people can be found using the link below:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-on-vulnerable-children-and-young-people/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-on-vulnerable-children-and-young-people.