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Newry and Armagh MLA Justin McNulty has spoken out about what he sees as the “heartbreaking” failures in the North’s respite care system.
Mr. McNulty met with the National Autistic Society and heard first hand from parents who are at breaking point due to systemic failures.
A recent BBC Spotlight investigation discovered that there are currently no residential places for disabled children in two of Northern Ireland's health trusts.
SDLP Newry & Armagh MLA Justin McNulty said: “Some of the stories I have heard from parents of disabled children are absolutely harrowing. Parents are at their wits end because the support is just not there.
“It is heartbreaking to hear mothers speaking about the panic they experience when their child becomes distressed and lashes out physically. It is completely unacceptable that parents are having to cope with all of this at home, and without support.
“The system is effectively turning its back on these families. Parents of children with complex needs are essentially being told that they are on their own. This cannot be allowed to stand.
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“I have contacted the Health Minister on this issue, and I will be campaigning wholeheartedly for the Department of Health and local Trusts to get a grip of this crisis and take urgent action to come to the aid of families under unimaginable pressure.”
