My child has, or may have, a disability
My baby may have a disability
Being told there is a possibility that your growing baby may have a medical condition, disability or genetic disorder is very difficult news to hear and you will be wondering what happens next.
The National Childbirth Trust who support parents from pregnancy to their child’s second birthday, have put together some frequently asked questions as well as some useful resources that may help you.
For additional support from other parents and carers who understand what you may be feeling and concerns you may have, you can get in touch with Wakefield Parent Carer Forum. You can also search for more parent and carer support on this website.
My child has a disability
If you child is diagnosed with a disability, or is awaiting diagnosis, it can be difficult to see what the next steps may be and how to support your child as they grow older.
The Local Offer website has lots of information available about information, support and provisions available across the Wakefield district as well as some online and out of area information, where appropriate. We have a 'How To Use This Site' page to help you search for information.
NHS Choices has also put together guidance about caring for a child with complex needs as well as some tips for caring for a disabled child.
For additional support from other parents and carers who understand what you may be feeling and concerns you may have, you can get in touch with Wakefield Parent Carer Forum. It’s important that as a parent or carer of a disabled child you also take time to look after yourself and Carer’s Wakefield and District have groups and courses available for you take part in to help with that.
If you have other children without a disability you can access to support from groups like Sibs. Sibs is a national charity supporting brothers and sisters of disabled children and has lots of information and support available for parents and cares as well as practitioners who work with them. They also have an online forum for adult siblings and website Young Sibs aimed at children and young people aged 6 to 17 years.
If you have a particular concern about your child, you can click on each of the sections on this page using the tabs at the top of the page to find more information and useful links about them.
Contact have a list of A-Z of Medical Conditions . This has information on symptoms and possible treatments. It also includes details for support groups. You can also take a look at our information and advice for parents caring for a child with a rare condition.