Contact - For families with disabled children

08/10/2026

✂️ Plan to cut disability support will harm young people

In the Guardian, our CEO Anna Bird responds to reports that the government is considering removing the universal credit health element for disabled people under 25.

Anna says:

"We share the government’s ambition for young people to work and thrive, but we do not believe removing financial security will create those opportunities. Ministers have said that those with the most severe disabilities will be protected. But worried families still don’t know what criteria would apply or how hard it would be to prove eligibility.

"Crucially, receiving the health element of universal credit does not mean a young person is not in education, employment or training (Neet). Before making such a fundamental change, ministers must publish the evidence."

Letters: Anna Bird and Rick Burgess respond to the government’s proposal to axe the health element from universal credit that disabled people under 25 receive

08/10/2026

Disabled people and their families could shape the future of accessible transport as the Law Commission begins a major review of the law in England and Wales. The review follows concerns the Transport Select Committee raised in 2025. The committee found that longstanding accessibility failings are h...

08/10/2026

Children learn to use the toilet at different stages. For some disabled children, it can take longer or they may need a different approach and extra support.

If you’re wondering where to start, our guide covers signs of readiness, practical ways to build a routine and who you can ask for help with continence concerns.

Read our advice for families across the UK: https://f.mtr.cool/t8qkwwjaym

07/10/2026

Waiting for a diagnosis can leave you wondering whether you’re allowed to ask for support yet. You are.

Your child’s needs matter now, whether they’re waiting for an assessment, have no confirmed diagnosis, or may never receive one.

Our guide explains ways to describe your child’s needs to professionals and find support for your family 👇🔗

This page contains information about support available when you child does not have a diagnosis

07/10/2026

Young disabled people need financial security AND opportunities to participate.

It was reported in the media last week that the government is considering removing the Universal Credit health element for disabled young people under the age of 25. Reports also suggested existing claimants could be affected.

These options have not been announced as government policy, but we know the reports will be worrying for families.

Contact has been campaigning against the proposed cuts and over 2,000 of you have joined us by taking action expressing your concern.

06/10/2026

When your child struggles to sleep, the whole family can feel the effects.

There can be many reasons sleep is difficult. Our guide has ideas for spotting patterns, making bedtime more comfortable and finding support if you need it.

Read our advice for families across the UK 👇🔗

Disabled children and those with certain medical conditions are more likely to experience problems with sleeping.

06/10/2026

You may have seen reports in the media last week about plans to further restrict Universal Credit health payments to young disabled people.

We are looking for families and young people who could be affected (families who have a child under the age of 25 in receipt of Universal Credit) to share their experience in the media to highlight the damage this could cause.

If you are interested in speaking out get in touch [email protected] or 07599 930 090.

06/10/2026

Join our FREE online event for families with children who have a rare condition!

If you care for a child with a rare condition or you represent a rare condition support group, please come along to our free online event on Thursday 12 November.

The reality of rare: caring for your child, looking after yourself on Thursday 12 November, 10am -12:30pm.

05/10/2026

Are you looking for grants to fund something specific for your disabled child?

You can use the Turn2us grants search tool on our website to look for grants that may fit your circumstances.

You find find the tool here 👇

Use our grants search tool supplied by Turn2us, a national charity that helps people in financial hardship to gain access to welfare benefits, charitable grants and support services.

04/10/2026

If your child eats only a few foods, finds chewing or swallowing difficult, or struggles at mealtimes, it can be worrying. There are many possible reasons, and you don’t have to work out the cause alone.

Our guide explores feeding and eating difficulties, practical ideas that may help, and which health professionals you can speak to for support.

Read the guide for families across the UK 👇

If a child refuses food or has difficulty with eating, it can leave parents feeling very anxious, helpless and frustrated. This page lists some of the physical problems that can cause difficulties with feeding and provides a few tips and ideas around managing meal times.