DISABILITIES

Housing for disabled children and their families: an information resource (15th May 2009)
An overview of information about housing for disabled children and their families, and ideas for improving their circumstances.
The purpose of the resource is to raise awareness of this important aspect of community care and to help non-specialists find out more about promoting positive change in this complex field.
The information resource contains:

• a summary of research evidence about the housing circumstances of disabled children and their families;
• an indication of the role of front-line workers in relation to housing for disabled children and their families;
• potential ways of improving housing, including moving house and adapting a family’s existing home;
• a summary of the relevant law in England;
• a series of case studies to help consolidate and expand knowledge of some of the issues involved; and
• guidance on running workshops to provide information to interested practitioners and families.

Report

What makes my family stronger (20th May 2009)
This report, from Contact a Family (Every Disabled Child Matters partner organisation), states that families with disabled children in the UK feel stigmatised and shut out from society. Key findings from the report include:

• Almost 70% of families with disabled children said that understanding and accpetance of disability from their community or society is poor or unsatisfactory
• Over 60% of families said they don't 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% of families said they don't 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.

Report