Background
The CYPSP Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties Sub- Group and the CYPSP Disability Sub-Group have jointly identified a clear need, for children and young people with a disability, in respect of emotional well-being and mental health issues, which are potentially being overshadowed by their disability. Although the total number of children and young people with a disability in Northern Ireland is unknown, a number will have complex health care needs and a range of other traumas, complicated by communication difficulties.
The function of both groups is to ensure access to the most appropriate service at a given time, if there is an assessed need. The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities adopts a social model of disability and defines disability as including those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which in interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.
All young people believe in the social model whereby systemic barriers, negative attitudes and exclusion by society (purposely or inadvertently) means society is the main contributory factor in disabling people.
To assist both groups with needs assessment and future planning and commissioning, It was felt that an analysis of what services are currently available to support the emotional well-being and mental health needs of young people with a recognised disability should be undertaken.
You have received this survey as you have categorised your service on Family Support NI as providing emotional well-being and mental health support, and we would fully appreciate if you could take 10 minutes out of your busy schedule to complete this short questionnaire.
Note:Information gathered in this survey will be analysed and a statistical report produced which will be available on the CYPSP website ( www.cypsp.org). All information contained within the report will be anonymised.
