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Justin Tomlinson MP signs the petition to provide child survivors of meningitis with assessments
throughout their education
Justin Tomlinson MP this week attended an event organised by the Meningitis Trust to mark the launch of their ‘Meningitis Changes Futures’ campaign.
The campaign was launched following the release of new research that has revealed that children who survive meningitis are five times more likely to have speech and hearing problems, four times more likely to have mental health problems, six times more likely to have epilepsy and significantly more likely to have memory and IQ problems. 1 in 4 who survive will suffer some form of long-term after effect.
The campaign is calling for automatic assessments and appropriate educational support to become routine for every child who survives meningitis. Many children may appear to have made a full recovery but are often left with psychological and neurological problems that may go unrecognised, as revealed by the research. These children can be left struggling at school and deprived of the educational support they need.
Justin Tomlinson MP said “Meningitis is a terrible disease that can affect children for the rest of their lives. I am delighted to support this event and the vital work that the Meningitis Trust does to improve the lives of those affected by meningitis.”
People are being urged to sign the Meningitis Trust education petition today at www.meningitischangesfutures.co.uk.