A new helpline for parents of children with diabetes is being launched to make sure schools are giving children the care they are entitled to.

It comes after Huddersfield University research revealed some schools are unsympathetic to youngsters with the disease.

The study by Dr Jo Brooks said ignorance of the condition could lead to bullying and youngsters failing to manage their diabetes.

The hotline, being set up by charity Diabetes UK in Halifax and Huddersfield, is part of the charity’s Make the Grade campaign which aims to make sure children with Type 1 diabetes are supported during all school activities.

Parents and carers have told the charity their children are being refused help with their insulin or refused a snack when they need it to help treat low blood glucose levels. Others are prevented from going on school outings and trips.

The new service will provide over the phone and email support to parents.

The charity is now looking for volunteers with experience of diabetes to get involved.

Volunteers will also provide face to face support to parents in the Halifax and Huddersfield areas and on some occasions accompany parents to meetings with the school.

Sally Caldwell, care in school helpline manager, said: “Our new helpline will ensure parents are supported in getting the help children with diabetes need during the school day. All volunteers for the new helpline must have some experience of diabetes.

“They may be parents themselves of a child with diabetes or they may have Type 1 diabetes and understand the day to day practicalities of living with the condition. We will help them learn about the new legislation and give them special training to develop negotiation and listening skills so they can support parents.”

Selected volunteers will be invited to a two-day training weekend where they will learn about the legislation and guidance as well as developing skills to help them in the support role.

A campaign by Diabetes UK, has led to new legislation which from September makes it a legal requirement for schools to look after children with diabetes.

Anyone interested in volunteering can email careinschoolshelpline@diabetes.org.uk or visit www.diabetes.org.uk/care-in-school