Donegal parents’ representatives have cautiously welcomed the announcement of a children’s disability service grant fund.
The scheme aims to support organisations that offer services or support to children with a disability.
The measure has been set out to bridge a gap between private services, community groups and the HSE, where staff shortages have been impacting children’s access to care.
The HSE is calling on disability service providers and community groups who can provide additional and innovative services, such as sensory programmes, evidence-based therapies and respite services to apply for funding. Funds will be distributed in 2023 and some proposals may be funded for up to three years.
Anne Rabbitte, Minister of State for Disabilities, said: “I welcome this fund as an initial step by the HSE in developing further supports for families. I am conscious that many families are awaiting services and I expect this fund will provide additional options for those children with complex needs, whether that be respite services, essential therapy interventions or additional support programmes.”
The announcement comes a week after the Special Needs Parents Network Donegal met with the HSE to discuss the crisis in the Children’s Network Disability Teams across Donegal.
A spokesperson for the community group, which has over 600 members, said: “Special Needs Parents Network Donegal cautiously welcome initiatives such as the Childrens Disability Service Grant Fund which is intended to support children who are currently waitlisted to access disability services.
“In our report “Stakeholder Impact of the CDNT crisis” the Special Needs Parents Network delivered 4 interim emergency measures to the HSE CHO 1 management that will help children on the Donegal CDNT caseload access therapeutic intervention and support in the short – medium term.
“We look forward to the HSE’s response on these measures.”
