We work with families to make a positive difference, despite the challenges that can come with disabilities. We offer specific medical and clinical services for children from birth and all through the life cycle.
The CRC is a lead agency in the following five areas in Clontarf, Clondalkin, Balbriggan, Swords and Waterford.
Children's disability services are for children and young people up to 18 years who have complex needs. If your child has less complex needs they may access services from your local primary care service.
For example, if they have a speech delay your local speech and language therapist can help. But sometimes your child may need to see a children’s disability network team (CDNT).
A Children’s Disability Network Team (CDNT) provides specialised support and services for children who have a disability and complex health needs associated with their disability.
The CDNT supports a child’s development, wellbeing and participation in family and community life. This works best when everyone works together as a team around your child. The team members share their knowledge, information and skills with you and your family so you can support your child’s development.
This helps children and young people to develop, learn, and take part in everyday activities. Team members can meet children and families in their home, in school or in our office.
At present, there are some very good services for children with disabilities and their families but also some large gaps. There may be a service for children with an intellectual disability in a locality, but none for children with a physical disability. Some children and their families have little or no access to services.
We need a fairer way to provide services for children with disabilities:
A national programme called ‘Progressing Disability Services for Children & Young People’ (often shortened to PDS) is changing the way services are provided across the country to make it equitable and consistent for all.
Many children with delays in their development can have their needs met by their local Primary Care services (public health nurse, community speech and language therapist, family doctor, community physiotherapist etc).
Children’s Disability Network Teams (CDNTs) will provide services for all children with more significant needs and who require a team of professionals working together. This will be regardless of the child’s disability, diagnosis or where he or she goes to school.
Parents and health professionals, instead of trying to find their way through a maze of services, will easily be able to find out where a child should be referred.
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