 Contact a Family has surveyed 615 families with disabled children about their experiences of living in the UK, asking what makes you stronger practically, socially and emotionally.
The research found that negative attitudes towards disability along with a lack of services are the main barriers preventing families with disabled children from leading ordinary lives.
Key findings include:
Almost 70 per cent of families with disabled children said that understanding and acceptance of disability from their community or society is poor or unsatisfactory.
Over 60 per cent of families said they dont feel listened to by professionals.
Vital support services such as short breaks, a key worker and childcare are unavailable to almost half of families.
Over 60 per cent of families said they dont feel valued by society in their role as carers.
Half of families with disabled children said the opportunity to enjoy play and leisure together is poor or unsatisfactory.
Contact a Family is calling for:
The UK government to invest in a UK-wide campaign to raise awareness of the needs of families with disabled children.
Disability Equality Training for everyone working in a public facing role in the UK.
A stronger focus on disability awareness in schools.
The UK government to commit to urgently reviewing carers benefits with a clear timetable for reform.
The report can be downloaded from the Contact a Family website. |
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