To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what support exists for parents and guardians that leave employment to provide full time care for a child that has a disability.

Support is provided to families that have children with disabilities based upon assessed need. Disabled children and their families can access support and services through the Health and Social Care Trusts’ Children’s Disability and/or Community Health Teams.

An assessment of need will be undertaken and a support plan put in place to promote the child’s personal and social development, and support the parents in their caring role. This may include onward referrals to other professionals and services, and co-ordinated support.

Furthermore, those parents who leave employment to provide full- time care for a disabled child may be eligible for welfare benefits through the Social Security Agency.