New Disability Website for Ealing Families

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Help at your finger tips with www.ealinghelp.org.uk

A new website to support local families of children with disabilities has been launched by Ealing Mencap, Ealing Council and Ealing Primary Care Trust.

The site, www.ealinghelp.org.uk, contains comprehensive information on all the services available in Ealing borough and surrounding areas for children with disabilities and their families.

Developed with parents and carers, the site features a discussion area, frequently asked questions, news and events, useful contacts, newsletters and information on:

• Eligibility criteria and access details for services including health, education, social care services and housing
• Benefits and funding
• Complementary therapies
• Leisure activities
• Transport
• Legal and policy issues
• Voluntary services
• Special projects.

EalingHELP is majority funded by Ealing Council. The site was developed by a project manager employed by Ealing Mencap, who worked with parents, carers and service providers to find out what information was needed. Mencap will continue to manage the site working in partnership with Integrated Services for Children with Disabilities.

There are 1,477 children with a statement of special educational needs in Ealing.

The number of children with complex needs supported by health, education and social services is just under 200. Approximately 700 children with learning difficulties and disabilities are supported by education and health.

Councillor Ian Gibb, deputy leader and cabinet member for children’s services, said: “This new website aims to be a one-stop information shop for families of children with disabilities in Ealing.

“It will help parents and carers to find out about the many services on offer and explain how they can be accessed. It should also be a valuable resource for all professionals who work in this area.

“We hope the discussion area becomes an invaluable forum for bringing parents together to share their experiences and knowledge, and for creating stronger support networks across the community.”

Julian Hillman, Ealing Mencap executive director, said: “The site will continue to evolve and grow as we take on feedback from parents, other family members, carers and local professionals, and information will be updated weekly.

“In the future we hope to secure funding to develop a web zone specifically for children and young people and we welcome your thoughts.”

 

March 1, 2007