THE new school term will herald a “historic landmark” for diabetes sufferers as English schools will have a legal duty to support children with long-term Type 1 conditions for the first time.

Diabetes UK said yesterday that some children with the condition, also known as "insulin-dependent" diabetes, have not been getting the support they need, and there have been calls for legal reforms.

Campaigners said a lack of training and understanding has meant some schools did not administer insulin or test the blood of children with Type 1.

There have also been examples of children not being allowed to eat snacks to treat low blood glucose levels, putting their health and education at risk.

But Diabetes UK said the new Children and Families Act 2014 should usher in important changes, including individual healthcare plans for children with Type 1.

Schools must also work with parents and diabetes specialist nurses to make sure children get the support they need.

Barbara Young, chief executive of Diabetes UK, said: “For too long, too many children with Type 1 diabetes have not got the support they need in schools and their health and education has suffered as a result.