A concerning health issue has emerged at the Battledown Centre for Children and Families in Cheltenham, where several children have been diagnosed with elevated levels of lead in their blood. The affected children, who attend this special school, are believed to have ingested lead-based paint due to a medical condition called pica, which involves eating non-food items.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Gloucestershire County Council’s Public Health department were notified of the situation in December 2024. Prompt communication with parents and carers has been prioritized, and specialist pediatricians are now closely monitoring the affected children.
Testing at the school has detected lead in the paint at levels that necessitate immediate action. Discussions are ongoing regarding further specialized testing to conclusively determine the source of lead exposure, with ongoing advice provided on necessary remedial work.
READ MORE: Coroner Refers Death of Equestrian Jayne Hunt to CPS After Horse Spooked by Motorcyclist
READ MORE: Gloucestershire Death Notices and Funeral Announcements: Honouring Loved Ones
Martin Hughes, Chief Executive of SAND Academies Trust, stated: “Upon learning of the elevated lead levels in a small group of children, we initiated thorough testing in partnership with UKHSA and local health and safety teams. We have taken swift action, including encapsulating painted surfaces and enhancing 1:1 supervision, while updating risk assessments to ensure pupil safety remains paramount.”
Lead exposure is a serious concern, particularly for children with pica, as their tendency to eat non-nutritive substances increases the risk of lead ingestion. Lead, once commonly found in paint, petrol, and plumbing, has been largely phased out, but legacy materials can still pose a hazard.
Elizabeth Smout, Consultant in Health Protection for UKHSA South West, explains: “Lead poisoning occurs when lead accumulates in the body, potentially causing symptoms such as irritability, fatigue, appetite loss, abdominal pain, and developmental delays. Young children are especially vulnerable due to their developing bodies.”
Siobhan Farmer, Director of Public Health for Gloucestershire County Council, emphasized the cooperative response: “We have been working closely with UKHSA and the school to identify all sources of lead exposure and to implement measures that protect the children. Maintaining clear communication with families continues to be a priority.”
The Battledown Centre and partner agencies remain committed to minimizing all risks and ensuring the health and safety of their students through ongoing monitoring and remediation efforts.