Disabled and special needs children

A person may be described as having special needs if they have:

• a physical disability
• a problem with sight, hearing or speech
• a mental disability
• emotional or behavioural problems
• a medical or health problem
• difficulties with reading, writing, speaking or mathematics work

If you are the parent of a child with special needs then support is available. The Children's Disability Team offers assessments and services to families with children aged 0 to 18 years who have significant disabilities or long-term illness.

Information, advice and support is available as well as practical assistance to help maximise your child's potential. The service also includes occupational therapists who can provide a range of support, including advice on any special equipment or adaptations to the home that may be needed to promote the wellbeing of a disabled child.