Back Up launches online resource to bolster inclusive education

Back Up (@backuptrust) launches new Education Inclusion Toolkit to bolster inclusive educational environments for children and young people affected by spinal cord injury

Back Up, the only UK charity with dedicated services for children and young people affected by spinal cord injury, has launched its new online Education Inclusion Toolkit. Aimed at education professionals and parents, the resource has been developed to support young people affected by spinal cord injury at different stages of their education. It provides comprehensive advice and practical tips from education and healthcare professionals, young people and family members to ensure students with a spinal cord injury are fully included in all aspects of their education.

Ali, whose son was supported by the education service at Back Up, said,

“The Education Inclusion Toolkit is an invaluable resource. The support that a young person with a spinal cord injury, parents and professionals need is wide and varied, though they often have the same issues. The toolkit is an incredible starting point for those of us who just don’t know where to turn. Inclusion in education cannot be underestimated and resources like this allow young people with a spinal cord injury to feel included and valued in their educational setting.”

The resource covers topics, including: health considerations post injury, accessing physical education, relationships and sexuality, dealing with bullying, considerations for Education, Health and Care plans, as well as a guide for teachers welcoming a new student with a spinal cord injury. 

“Inclusive education is imperative for children and young people with a spinal cord injury to get the most out of life. It’s vital,” said Abigail Lock, CEO of Back Up. “Without access to information and lived experiences, often the needs of children and young people with a spinal cord injury are at best misunderstood, and at worst ignored. Put simply, this means their needs aren’t catered for and their ability to get the most from their education is inhibited by inaccessibility. This resource has given children and young people a voice and the opportunity to shape the future of inclusive education. We look forward to it helping to transform the educational lives of children and young people.”

Spinal cord injury is life-changing.  Back Up’s mission is to deliver services that build confidence, independence and inspire people affected by spinal cord injury to transform their lives. The Education Inclusion Toolkit is the latest in the unique support package the charity provides to children and young people with a spinal cord injury, alongside adventurous multi activity courses, wheelchair skills training, and peer mentoring.

To access Back Up’s Education Inclusion Toolkit, click here.