In this section
Pill School helps children learn how to swallow tablets and capsules. We make learning fun. Your child will play games and practice step by step. Each child gets a small goody bag to take home and practice with.
Benefits of Pill School
Learning to swallow tablets and capsules can be helpful:
- Less sugar
- Easier to carry and store
- Easier to get from pharmacies
- Less spills and mess
- Last longer
- Better for the planet
Signing up for Pill School
Please ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to sign up for Pill School. They can refer your child. You will receive a text when the session is booked.
If your child is on a ward, talk to any member of the team to sign up to Pill School. The Pill School team will let you know the date and time of the session.
Finding Pill School
The sessions take place in the children’s outpatient department. We try to book sessions on the same day as other visits. If your child is in hospital, we run sessions on wards. Your nurse can arrange this for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my child can swallow tablets after Pill School?
Your child’s medicine can now be switched to tablets or capsules. This might not happen right away. Some medicines may stay the same if needed.
What happens if my child cannot swallow tablets after Pill School?
That is OK. Many children need more than one session. Your child can come back again until they feel happy and confident. The Pill School team will book your child another session.
Who will change my child’s medicine?
Your child’s medicine will be changed by their doctor or a different team member.
When will my child’s medicine be changed?
This should happen at the next clinic visit or review. If you are not sure, please ask your team.
If your child is on a ward, their medicine might be changed before they go home. Your team will tell you what to expect.
What do I do with any leftover liquid medicine?
If you have any leftover medicine, you can take it to a local pharmacy. They will throw it away safely. Only do this once you have the new tablets, or if your team tell you to.
Will my child’s GP be told that my child can now swallow tablets?
Yes, your GP will be told. You can ask your GP to prescribe tablets if possible.
My child has been to Pill School but is still struggling with tablets at home?
Please get back in touch with your child’s doctor or nurse. They can arrange another appointment at the Pill School. Your child’s medicine will not be switched to tablets before they are ready. If needed they can switch tablets back to liquids.
I need to change or cancel my child's appointment, who can I contact?
Please phone the booking team on 0161 701 9501, option 4.
If your child is on a ward, just let your nurse know. They can tell the Pill School team.
Is there a contact number for the Pill School team?
There is no direct number for the Pill School team. Please contact the booking team for appointment changes. Contact your doctor or nurse for any other questions.
Can I cut my child’s tablet at home to help them swallow it?
Sometimes you can, but not always. Please ask your child’s doctor or pharmacist first.
Feedback
Parent
Friendly pharmacy technician Julie put my child at ease immediately. It didn't feel rushed which made us all relax a bit and meant my child didn't feel pressured
