McGrath welcomes recognition of need for increased respite provision for carers looking after children and adults with learning difficulties
SDLP Health Spokesperson Colin McGrath has welcomed Assembly recognition of the need for increased respite provision for children with learning difficulties, complex needs and challenging behaviour.
On Monday (21 October 2024) the SDLP Opposition successfully amended an Assembly motion on provision for adults to include children.
South Down MLA Colin McGrath said: “I welcome recognition from the Assembly today of the importance of improved respite provision for both adults and children with learning difficulties, complex needs and challenging behaviour.
“You only have to look at the recent BBC Spotlight programme to look at the incredible struggle these families face on a daily and hourly basis.
“It was important that myself and SDLP Leader Claire Hanna recently met with the parents featured in that programme to hear their story.
“Being a carer in any setting can put someone under huge pressure, with a significant impact on their physical and mental health.
“These people do important work whether it’s looking after a loved one or the healthcare workers who provide people with independence and dignity.
“There has been a long over-due need for recognition of the role these people play in society and many receive no payment or support whatsoever.
“Nobody could ever question the commitment of these carers, but they must also be able to seek respite when needed, for their benefit, but also the benefit of the people they look after.
