Parents with a disability who have young dependent children often feel more isolated because they find they can not access the community and the services they need easily.
"There were no services available through the Council or local churches to assist. I was not referred by my maternal health care nurse to a mothers group because she thought it would be too difficult for me to attend." (Aileen, a mum with a chronic pain condition).
For instance, even if the parent can drive, getting around with a newborn baby is a challenge. Parents with a disability who are reliant on public transport or the Multi - purpose Taxis, may find they need to plan their time carefully and well in advance. Coping with a wheelchair or a guide dog and a baby or toddler in a pusher at the same time are difficulties faced by many parents with physical and visual disabilities respectively.
Consequently, there is an urgent need for family service agencies and organisations working with people with disabilities to work together to broaden their knowledge base so that staff working with parents with a disability can provide the best care and support.
Establishing professional networks between relevant agencies will enable regular meetings, training, information and resource sharing and improve the quality of support to parents with a disability.
Issues Faced by Parents with a Disability:
