What medication support and administration mean in children's homes

Medication support in children's homes ranges from reminding a child to take a prescribed medicine to direct administration by trained staff. The appropriate level depends on the child's age, health needs, independence, risks, the agreed plan and the home's policy.

Safe medicines practice begins with the child's health and placement plans and the local medication procedure. Staff should know which medicines the child takes, what level of support is agreed, who is authorised to give medicines, what records are required, where medicines are stored and when to seek clinical advice.

Medicines work in children's homes may include

• Administration: giving the medicine according to the label and the plan.
• Support: helping a child to follow a routine safely without taking on more than necessary.
• Recording: completing the MAR or eMAR accurately and promptly.
• Storage: keeping medicines secure, organised and stored appropriately.
• Escalation: responding to refusal, side effects, errors, stock shortages or changes in health.

The current children's homes inspection framework requires managers' arrangements for medication and complex health needs to be safe, effective and to promote independence where appropriate. Homes therefore need procedures that protect children while supporting age-appropriate self-care.

Medicines support should match the child in front of you, not a one-size-fits-all routine for the whole home.