Children with disabilities in Family Start
Published: September 16, 2019
This presentation shows the main findings from the Family Start Disability Survey, an exploratory analysis of families participating in the programme, with a focus on children with disabilities.
Background
The survey of 159 Family Start workers, conducted in late 2018, was designed to increase our understanding of the types of disabilities, needs and service delivery gaps experienced by young children with disabilities (0 to 5 years old) and their families enrolled in the Family Start Programme.
Key findings
Findings suggest that the prevalence of disability is higher than anticipated, and boys are more affected than girls.
It also suggests that disabilities are not being picked up early enough, and that many families are not receiving timely and appropriate support and services they need.
Family Start workers told us about the challenges for these families such as long waiting lists, delays in accessing adequate treatment, and financial stress.