Happy families

Author:
ASH Angie
Journal article citation:
Learning Disability Today, 10(6), July 2010, pp.14-16.
Publisher:
Pavilion
Place of publication:
Hove

It is conservatively estimated that over 55,000 adults with learning disabilities in England, Scotland and Wales have one or more children. This does not include undiagnosed difficulties that may not come to the attention of services. Research evidence suggests that families where one or both parents have learning disabilities face many problems bringing up their own children, often living in unsatisfactory housing in poor neighbourhoods where they are harassed, exploited or excluded. They may lack access to the information about parenting and childcare that they need, in understandable formats. This article outlines the stories of two sets of parents about the support they received via the “Working Together with Parents Network” project. Key points for services were found to include the importance of early intervention and individually tailored support.  Practical service support included professionals’ beliefs in the parents’ abilities, positive and constructive support, multiagency support, and addressing issues such as housing, and low self-esteem.

Subject terms:
parenting, parents with learning disabilities, self-esteem, social exclusion, access to information, access to services, family support;
Content type:
practice example
Location(s):
England, Scotland, Wales
Link:
Journal home page
ISSN print:
1752-007X

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