Urgent: Over 800 Children Await Critical Disability Services

UPDATE: Over 878 children are currently on waiting lists for essential disability support services in the West and North West region. This urgent situation has sparked outrage as families face prolonged delays for vital assessments and therapies.

As of the end of May 2023, 324 children in this region had been waiting for more than a year for assessment from the Children Disability Network Teams (CDNTs). These services encompass a range of critical support, including occupational therapy, psychology, physiotherapy, social work, and speech and language therapy for children under 18.

Galway East Sinn Féin TD Louis O’Hara expressed deep concern, stating, “It’s unacceptable that children are left waiting for these vital services.” His comments highlight the growing frustration among families who rely on timely interventions to support their children’s development and well-being.

The ongoing delays raise serious questions about the adequacy of disability services in the region. The high number of children on waiting lists underscores a significant gap in support that could have lasting impacts on their health and future prospects.

Authorities must act swiftly to address this crisis. Families are calling for immediate government action to ensure that children receive the necessary assessments and services without further delay. The emotional toll on both children and their families is immense, as many face challenges that could be alleviated with timely support.

What happens next? The community is rallying for change, demanding answers and solutions from local and national leaders. Advocacy efforts are expected to intensify in the coming days, putting pressure on officials to prioritize the needs of these vulnerable children.

Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated—children’s futures hang in the balance.