If your child has a disability the future may seem like a daunting struggle, not
just for them, but for you too. The word 'disabled' covers a very wide range of
different conditions and it is estimated that some 15% of people in the UK
experience some form of disability at some time in their lives. Remember you
and your child are not alone.The Government, local council, health and
education authorities provide a wide range of benefits, facilities, support and
advice for disabled children and their carers.
Legal protection
Your child is especially protected by law. The Disability Discrimination Act
makes it unlawful for any service provider (including schools, businesses and
organisations) to treat disabled people less favourably than other people
because of their disability. It also requires them to make reasonable
adjustments to make their services
accessible to disabled people.
Health
From the start, your GP and local health service are there for you. They'll
provide the help and advice you need to discover and assess your child's
disability. They'll help you plan the treatment, therapy, equipment and ongoing
medical care that your child may need.
Benefits
There are several specific benefits that you could receive to help you with the
costs of caring for a disabled child. These include Disability Living
Allowance, Carers Allowance, help with extra housing costs and Carers Blue
Badge scheme. And don't forget free dental treatment and prescriptions, help
with the cost of glasses, and in some circumstances travel to hospital, school
meals, and even road tax exemption.
Education
Depending on their kind of disability, your child may benefit most by attending
a special school - an environment specifically designed to match their
educational needs. Alternatively your child may receive the extra support they
require through special educational needs provision. Your education authority
and health service providers will help you assess your child's special
educational needs and recommend the most appropriate way forward for their
education.
Extra support
Your council can provide extra support for you and your child. This can include
special leisure facilities, holidays, short breaks and many additional services
for particular needs. Also there are many local, national and international
organisations and charities specially set up to provide further help, advice
and support to people
just like you.
Make contact
Below you'll find a list of contacts that you may find useful. You're not
alone, so make contact today and get the support you need.
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