(1)This section applies where a Health Authority [F1, a Primary Care Trust] [F2, a National Health Service trust or an NHS foundation trust] , in the course of exercising any of their functions in relation to a child who is under [F3compulsory school age], form the opinion that he has (or probably has) special educational needs.
(2)The Authority or trust—
(a)shall inform the child’s parent of their opinion and of their duty under paragraph (b), and
(b)after giving the parent an opportunity to discuss that opinion with an officer of the Authority or trust, shall bring it to the attention of the appropriate local education authority.
(3)If the Authority or trust are of the opinion that a particular voluntary organisation is likely to be able to give the parent advice or assistance in connection with any special educational needs that the child may have, they shall inform the parent accordingly.
Textual Amendments
F1Words in s. 332(1) inserted (8.2.2000) by S.I. 2000/90, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 para. 32(3) (with s. 2(5))
F2Words in s. 332(1) substituted (1.4.2004) by Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (c. 43), s. 199(1)(4), Sch. 4 para. 105; S.I. 2004/759, art. 2
F3Words in s. 332(1) substituted (1.8.1998) by 1997 c. 44, s. 57(1), Sch. 7 para. 24; S.I. 1998/386, art. 2, Sch. 1 Pt. III