A Life-Altering Injury in the Classroom: One Teacher’s Fight for Change

In November 2022, special education teacher Sophie Cole sustained a life-altering injury while protecting a child in her classroom. She was later diagnosed with complex regional pain syndrome — an incurable condition that left her unable to return to work and in constant pain. Months later, Sophie learned her paid assault leave had ended, forcing her onto limited state supports while still undergoing treatment. Now, Sophie is campaigning for reform of the assault leave policy for teachers and SNAs, calling for paid leave for the full duration of medically certified recovery, coverage of medical expenses, and better recognition of the realities of special education classrooms. Broadcast on 16/02/2026 Subscribe to Ireland AM for more exclusive videos: https://bit.ly/4cZifj3 FOLLOW US:   / irelandamvmtv     / irelandamvmtv     / irelandamvmtv   MORE ABOUT IRELAND AM: Welcome to the official Ireland AM Channel! We are Ireland's biggest breakfast show live weekdays from 7am-10am & weekends from 9am-12pm on Virgin Media Play & Virgin Media One. Join us as we explore various news topics of interests while guests open up for interviews that cover a multitude of subjects such as politics, food and human interest! #IrelandAM