SCHOOL nurses have been recognised for going above and beyond to support children with special needs.

The Millwood School Nursing Team were praised for their commitment to improving the health of children at Radcliffe-based Millwood Primary Special School.

They received a CARES Award from Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust in the Community Service Bury category.

They work closely with children aged three to 11 who have complex health needs and learning disabilities.

School nurse Belinda Zabel, who nominated the team, said: "Within every school there is a requirement for health education.

"We have to work a little bit harder to get the message across.

"There are many challenges working with children with special needs. We often have to think outside the box and enjoy working closely with teachers, families and the children to tailor our work to fit the individual needs of each child.

"I nominated the team for working hard to develop activities and lesson plans that support the most vulnerable children in our community to live happy, healthy and safe lives."

The nursing team gives health advice to the children on topics such as healthy eating, dental hygiene and hand washing.

The team has had to work creatively to help children with varying levels of communication or sensory difficulties, by using props, visual aids, sign language or songs to help convey messages.

Millwood School Nursing Team also work with other health professionals to deliver sessions, host coffee mornings, and meet with families to discuss health promotion topics.

Belinda added: "It's incredibly rewarding to know that our support can make a positive difference to the lives of the children of Millwood School and their families."

A video about their good work is available at www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUbKcgX01cY.