In a bid to enhance support for families of children with disabilities, Belfast Trust has announced plans to increase residential provision. This comes as part of a broader initiative to improve access to both residential and short-break respite services. The trust has partnered with Barnardos to successfully commission a short breaks service, initially providing 20 bed nights per month. The trust is actively working to expand this service to 40 bed nights per month for those with less complex needs.
The funding, announced in November by Health Minister Mike Nesbitt, includes an additional £2 million and recurrent funding of £13 million aimed at offering improved services for families of children with disabilities. Despite the financial boost, some families report that they have yet to see any tangible benefits. Mothers who provided evidence to the health committee indicate that the much-needed funds have not yet reached them.
In addition to their partnership with Barnardos, Belfast Trust has revealed that plans are underway to utilize space within Forest Lodge for residential short breaks. Forest Lodge serves as a children's respite unit catering to those with learning disabilities and complex healthcare needs. This strategy aims to further alleviate the pressure on existing services.
"It's the buildings and the workforce that are tricky," noted a spokesperson from Belfast Trust, highlighting the challenges in scaling up services quickly.
Nigel Chambers, an official from the Department of Health, acknowledged that while there have been nominal increases in short-break capacity since the airing of a Spotlight film, most of the activity has focused on scaling other services more rapidly. He expressed regret over the current state of demand versus supply.
"We feel shame that we work in a system where demand has outstripped supply for a significant period of time," Chambers admitted.
Maurice Leeson highlighted measurable improvements delivered by trusts, specifically noting enhancements in the Southern and Western Trusts. These trusts have successfully increased the short breaks capacity within existing units, setting a positive example for others to follow.
The South Eastern Trust has welcomed the additional funding, expressing optimism about its potential to support a range of early intervention, prevention, and support services. However, despite the intentions behind the funding allocations, progress has been slower than some families had hoped.
Shirelle Stewart, Northern Ireland director of the National Autistic Society, conveyed her reaction after hearing from affected families.
"I was very moved by the experiences the families shared and expressed their disappointment that no real changes have taken place since the film was broadcast," Stewart stated.
"They said they will be asking the health trusts why this is the case," she added, reflecting the ongoing concerns of families awaiting improved services.
Claire Miller, one of the mothers affected, shared her personal struggles.
"I no longer feel safe being alone with my son and it's not his fault," Miller expressed, underscoring the pressing need for respite services.
Julie Tipping echoed similar sentiments regarding the challenges faced by families on a daily basis.
"I know things can't happen quickly but when you're living with it day-to-day and you're not sure when it's going to happen it's really hard to take," Tipping said.
For some families, like that of Carly Braiden, the situation remains dire.
"He's not able to go to school at the minute except for a day here and there. He's considered a danger to himself and others," Braiden explained about her son's circumstances.
Despite the challenges, health officials remain committed to improving services. The Department of Health has accelerated work to enhance access to respite care for families of children with disabilities. This commitment is crucial in addressing the gap between demand and supply in these vital services.
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