Trying to assist the mother who's son is at college and should be in receipt of Education Maintenance Allowance, his attendance is as such that he has been denied the Allowance due to his Disability as he is often off sick. However he appears to attend 75% of the time, the condition that warrants him sometimes not to attend is a back condition. Have been told that he is affected by aspergers syndrome, dyspraxia & grade 1 spondolysis.
The mother has a meeting shortly scheduled with the college to discuss the matter. I checked with the EMA helpline and was told it was to the discretion of the college in the event of absenteeism of whether they are able authorise payment of EMA or not. The college have said they require a sick note for every occasion he does not attend, the GP told the client that he does not do complete sick notes for people for periods under 7 days, however the GP has already completed a blanket letter describing the health difficulties of the son and why he on occasions is unable to attend college.
On contacting the EMA helpline I was told that no legislation on EMA exists, however I believe this is not the case. It would be very helpful if someone could direct me to the legislation on EMA or a guidance, which may hopefully hopefully provide details of what to do in the case of my client' occasional absenteeism. Secondarily in the light of rules on EMA it would be helpful if I could have some guidance on how to argue his case.
Look forward to any help that can be suggested on the matter.
Graham
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