Dickson Alarmed by Report Looking at the Impacts of Covid on the Families of Disabled Children

East Antrim Alliance MLA, Stewart Dickson, has expressed his alarm at the findings of a recently released report by Family Fund, on the impacts of the Coronavirus pandemic on families raising disabled or seriously ill children in the UK.

Mr Dickson said: “The effects of Covid have taken a toll on us all, but the most vulnerable in our society have been hit particularly hard and it is now - when we have the ability to look back and examine these impacts - that the full extent is becoming apparent.”

The report has identified three key areas of concern: support, finance, and wellbeing. It draws upon research Family Fund undertook via five online surveys from March 2020 to February 2021, as well as in-depth interviews conducted with families.

The Northern Irish data looks at the experience of 110 families, raising 148 disabled children and young people.

Commenting on the findings, Mr Dickson said: “68% of families felt the overall level of support they received dropped from April 2020. A slight decrease in support at the very beginning of lockdown is understandable, but it’s very alarming to see such a large overall figure.

“The disappointing picture is exacerbated by a further finding that 71% families experienced a deterioration in their financial situation, and 81% felt their health and wellbeing had worsened.”

Mr Dickson concluded by saying: “The ultimate goal is for families raising disabled or seriously ill children to have the same choices, opportunities, and aspirations as other families.

“Despite the set-backs Covid has thrown our way, the incredible work that organisations like Family Fund do continues with a renewed vigour - supporting the lives, and providing opportunities, for thousands across the UK.”