Safeguarding children and young people with disabilities

Disability Discrimination Legislation

The general legislative context for safeguarding disabled children is the same as for all children. The same principles and the same duties apply, whether a child is disabled or not. This section sets out only those elements of legislation, guidance and policy specifically relevant for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of disabled children.

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1995

defines a disabled person (including a disabled children) as someone with ‘a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long term adverse effect on his ability to carry out normal day to day activities’.

In settings the DDA applies to us and we must do everything we can to ensure that child is not excluded and that we make reasonable adjustments with the services we provide.

Our background was working, supporting and advocating for families who have children with a disability so we understand how it can be challenging things can be for parents and their families. We also personally understand how isolating it can be if people don’t understand the issues families deal with on a day to day basis.

Sometimes spaces and places can be an uncomfortable place to be for families who may feel judged by others because they struggle with some aspects of parenting.

We know that children with disabilities are particularly vulnerable for all kinds of reasons when it comes to safeguarding.

We offer training around understanding behaviour, the autistic spectrum, ADHD and how you can help and support families and individuals.

Posted in: Training

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