SOURCES OF HELP

Health care

Questions about health care should be addressed to the midwife, family doctor, or to the health visitor (who is generally based at the local Child Health Clinic). The child may also be under the care of a paediatrician or some other hospital-based specialist who will also give advice. All can be useful sources of information about other services.

Other problems

A useful starting point for help is the local authority or hospital social worker. In many areas a social worker calls automatically after the birth of a child with special needs. Sometimes a visit may have to be arranged; look in the telephone directory under Local Authority Social Services Department.

Child Development Centres and Community Teams for Learning Disabilities exist in many areas. They consist of professionals (psychologists, speech and language therapists, doctors etc.) who can provide valuable information and assistance.

The Benefits Agency (Department of Social Security) is the government department in charge of the payment of benefits to people with learning disabilities (mental handicap) and their families and carers. One of the useful booklets the Benefits Agency produces is called "Caring for Someone?". It is updated from time to time to take account of changes in the benefits. Telephone the local Benefits Agency office for a copy. The DSA also has information on benefits.

The Down's Syndrome Association's national office has staff who can answer many of the questions that arise. The association has a network of branches and groups which are run by other parents. They are a mine of information and first-hand experience and will always welcome a new member. Contact the association at either:
Down's Syndrome Association
155 Mitcham Road
London
SW17 9PG
020-8682 4001
020-8682 4012

or:
Down's Syndrome Association - Scotland
158-160 Balgreen Road
Edinburgh
EH11 3AU
0131-313 4225