15 December 2009

Figures published today show an increase in parental satisfaction for services for disabled children in 2009-10. The national overall score increased to 61 points, up two points from 59 last year.

The findings come from the second national sample survey of parents of disabled children in England conducted between July to November 2009. For the first time this year the figures also include scores for local authorities (LAs) and primary care trusts (PCTs) across the country so parents can compare their local area with the national score.

Parents were asked in a questionnaire about their experiences of three broad service sectors: health, education and care and family support.

Commenting on the figures, Schools Minister Diana Johnson said:

"I am pleased that parents' experience of services for disabled children has improved. The Government recognises how important it is that services meet the needs of disabled children and their families and that all children get the best possible start in life.

"Through the Aiming High for Disabled Children programme the Government is helping to support parent participation. Through this increased focus in parents shaping services we expect to see these improvements continue. It will be important for LAs and PCTs to reflect on their scores and see what action they may need to take to ensure services meet the needs of those using them."

Care Services Minister Phil Hope said:

"I'm very encouraged that parents are feeling the improvements we're making. Supporting a child with additional needs can be challenging and we want to give those children the same opportunities as everyone.

"Our investment of £340 million in disabled children's health services over three years will improve provision of children's wheelchairs and other equipment. It will also support care for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions and short breaks."

Editor's Notes

1. This survey provides an overall national score on parental experience of 61 (out of 100) for 2009-10. This is calculated by taking an average of the 15 sub-indicator scores that measure the extent to which services for disabled children are delivered across the health, education and care & family support service sectors according to the five elements of the Aiming High for Disabled Children core offer (information, transparency, assessment, participation and feedback).

2. Figures from the 2009-10 survey of services provided to disabled children are available at: http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/STR/d000902/index.shtml

3. The 2008-09 survey of services provided to disabled children resulted in a national baseline of 59 (out of a possible 100). Figures are available at: http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/STR/d000846/index.shtml

Contact Details

Public Enquiries 0870 000 2288, info@dcsf.gsi.gov.uk

Press Notice 2009/0254