INTO calls for improvements to assault leave scheme for teachers
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The primary school teachers’ union is seeking improvements to the leave scheme available for staff injured during the course of their classroom duties.
The Irish National Teachers Orgnisation (INTO) is currently working on improvements to the assault leave scheme through the Teachers’ Conciliation Council.
The recently highlighted the case of Sophie Cole, a special education teacher (SET) who suffered a classroom assault that left her with the world’s most painful, incurable condition.
Some 396 school staff were left unable to perform their duties last year due to a physical injury they suffered in the classroom or on school grounds.
A survey conducted by the INTO in May last year had “deeply alarming” findings that highlighted the prevalence of physical assault in schools, according to INTO deputy general secretary Deirdre O’Connor.
“This includes 96% of teachers in special schools, 61% in mainstream schools with special classes, and 42% in mainstream schools.
"The impact on teachers' physical and mental well-being cannot be overstated, with many sustaining injuries and requiring medical attention.”
There is an urgent need for “systemic change” she added, including better resourcing of schools, enhanced teacher training to address behavioural challenges, and greater investment in therapeutic and mental health services for children and families.
“Teachers must be empowered to carry out their vital role in a safe and supportive environment.
Figures released to the Irish Examiner show that more than 1,300 teachers and special needs assistants (SNAs) have taken assault leave since 2020 after sustaining a physical injury during their course of their duties.
Sophie Cole is now working to amend the current assault leave provisions available to those working in classrooms.
She is campaigning for assault leave to be amended to provide staff with financial assistance to cover expenses relating to medical bills, therapy sessions, and medication.
She is also seeking an amendment to extend assault leave for the duration of school staff’s medically certified leave, and for the establishment of a “comprehensive support system for educators who become victims of violence in the workplace, ensuring a swift and emphatic response to their needs.”