Hundreds of children with intellectual disabilities face being turned away from essential services when they finish school next month.

This is according to the Irish Times, which reported on the planned funding cuts to such services announced via the Health Service Executive's (HSE's) service plan for 2012.

The document claimed: "Some reductions in services will be unavoidable even with efficiencies. These will arise in day services, residential and respite services."

As a result, dozens of parents are concerned they will have nowhere to send their children, who require ongoing support through occupational therapy, speech, language or physiotherapy.

Deirdre Carroll of Inclusion Ireland commented: "It is extremely disappointing and frustrating for families who are left in limbo over the future of their children."

The HSE's report explained that disability services will reduce by 3.7 per cent in 2012, as a result of the impact of the efficiency, procurement and targeted pay reduction savings.

Written by Donal Walsh

Comments