SNA reassignments for Covid-19
by Mehak Dugal and Bernard Harbor
 

Discussions between Fórsa, the education department and the HSE have produced final details of the new service that special needs assistants (SNAs) will provide while schools are closed.

 

SNAs are to support students who receive HSE disability services through remote working, using telephones, smart phones or laptops.

 

And they’ll be directed by a HSE clinician – like a speech and language therapist, psychologist or occupational therapist – who’s familiar with the student.

 

During the talks, Fórsa sought and received guarantees that SNAs would not be reassigned to healthcare assistant roles, for which they are unqualified. They won’t be reassigned to HSE elderly care services either.

 

Fórsa’s education chief Andy Pike said the reassignments would allow SNAs to play an important role in supporting vulnerable students and families through a difficult period.

 

“Wherever possible, SNAs will be allocated their own students. Where this is not possible, they may be required to assist new students. Students and families requiring the greatest level of support will be prioritised,” he said.

 

Get more details HERE.

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