Contact a Family - For Families With Disabled Children

Families with disabled children in the UK feel stigmatised and shut out from society, according to new research published today by Contact a Family.

Contact a Family surveyed 615 families with disabled children about their experiences of living in the UK, asking what makes you stronger practically, socially and emotionally.

'What makes my family stronger' found negative attitudes towards disability coupled with a lack of services are the main barriers preventing families with disabled children from leading ordinary lives. While some families show resilience, imagination and great strength attempting to overcome these barriers, there are some who cannot cope any longer and are at breaking point. Key findings include:

- Over 60% of families said they don’t feel listened to by professionals.
- Half of families with disabled children said the opportunity to enjoy play and leisure together is poor or unsatisfactory.

To read the full Contact a Family report, please follow the link below. We'd also like to hear your thoughts, so please take part in our discussions and comment on our posts.