A new centre for early intervention could make a world of difference to the lives of disabled babies and very young children.
Mencap is asking parents of very young children with a disability for their opinions on setting up a centre for early intervention to give them the best possible start in life.
Early intervention can include play, family support, early education, therapy and health care -anything which supports the child's development.
The survey is part of a feasibility study co-ordinated by Mencap and commissioned by the Department for Education and Skills. This will look at the viability of a centre that could act as a one-stop shop for information, advice, research and training related to early intervention for babies and pre-fives with a disability.
What would the centre do? How would it work? What are your experiences? These are just some of the questions posed by the survey.
Jo Williams, Mencap's chief executive, said: "Some families tread a very lonely path in those early years of bringing up a child with a disability. Others have to grapple with fragmented services and information when seeking the best support for their child. This survey is designed to pool parents' experiences to see if a centre for early intervention could make a real difference. We are keen to hear the views of as many parents as possible."
Guy Hanrahan,14, has severe-profound learning disabilities due to Angelman syndrome, a rare chromosome disorder. This was diagnosed when he was 15 months old, as it only becomes apparent through delayed development.
His mother, Gail Hanrahan, said: "From my own experience, the earlyyears are the most difficult emotionally. A new parent of a child with a disability needs someone to walk with them through the minefield of information and new terminology.
The right support can make a positive impact on the parent-child relationship, at a time when this may be particularly strained.
Gail Hanrahan added: "I think a centre for early intervention would be excellent, paving the way for a better deal for babies and young children with a disability. I really hope lots of other parents have their say - they are the sort of families that would benefit when the centre gets off the ground."
Parents and professionals can take part in the survey by visiting the website at www.earlyintervention.org.uk, sending an email to info@earlyintervention.org.uk or phoning 020 7696 6954. The survey is being conducted until the end of June; the feasibility study will be completed by March next year.
Source: Mencap, 17/05/2004
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