Bridgwater Parent Support Group
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In June 2017, Healthwatch Somerset attended a meeting of the Bridgwater Parent Support Group to hear the experiences of parents and carers of children and young people with additional needs and disabilities. Eight people attended the discussion, which focused on experiences of assessments, health services and support for families.
Parents described difficulties accessing timely autism assessments, obtaining Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and receiving appropriate support from health and care services. Participants also raised concerns about a lack of understanding of autism within GP practices and hospitals, inflexible appointment arrangements and healthcare environments that could be distressing for children with sensory or communication needs. The group highlighted the need for greater awareness of autism among healthcare professionals and improved consideration of accessibility and reasonable adjustments within health settings. Healthwatch Somerset committed to exploring these issues further with similar groups across the county.