A physical disability is a ‘limitation on a person’s physical functioning, mobility, dexterity, or stamina.’ It has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ negative effect on a person’s ability to do daily activities.
Equality Act, 2010
Physical disabilities or difficulties can:
- be mild or severe
- affect a child or young person’s development
- be hidden.
The most common causes of physical disability include:
- muscular dystrophies
- spina bifida
- cerebral palsy
There are various support services available in Devon to help children and young people with physical difficulties or disabilities.
Occupational therapy
Children and Family Health Devon’s Occupational Therapy (OT) Team provides advice, assessment, intervention and support for children who have a range of disabilities, disorders and additional needs that prevent them from carrying out the activities of everyday life.
Equipment and adaptations
Devon Independent Living Integrated Service (DILIS) includes delivery and installation, servicing and maintenance, and collection of equipment that has been ordered by a prescriber, GP, nurse, therapist or social services provider. DILIS also make adaptations to people’s homes.
Orthotics, prosthetics, wheelchairs and special seating
Exeter Mobility Centre has the contract for orthotics, prosthetics, and wheelchair services in Devon.
The wheelchair service assesses you for the provision of:
- wheelchairs and children’s buggies if you have long-term mobility problems
- pressure care cushions for wheelchairs
- equipment to provide postural support in wheelchairs or buggies
The Plymouth, South Hams and West Devon wheelchair service provide assessments for people with mobility and other postural problems, supplying wheelchairs, pressure care cushions and accessories for wheelchairs in Plymouth, the South Hams and West Devon.
Vranch House provides the specialist wheelchair service for children who have been assessed by a community therapist as requiring specialist provision that cannot be provided by mainstream service.
Alternative and augmented communication (AAC)
Vranch House provides an AAC intervention service. This service provides specialist speech and language therapist input to help people use high-tech AAC systems.
Depending on the equipment or mobility aid needed children and young people may need a referral from a health care professional, for example a GP or physiotherapist.
Disabled Facilities Grants
You could get a grant from your council if you’re disabled and need to make changes to your home. In Devon these grants are provided by your local District, Borough or City Council. Find out more about Disabled Facilities Grants.
Support in school
Children and young people with physical needs are supported in schools by their teachers and special educational needs coordinators.
Physical Difficulties Team
Support may also be available, either in education settings or in the homes from the Physical Difficulties Team. Help on offer ranges from advice on how pupils can safely take part in PE, or how to support them to access exams.
ICT/SEN Team
The ICT/SEN Team supports access to Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and provides advice on using ICT to enhance learning for children and young people with sensory, physical, significant learning or communication and interaction difficulties.
Social care support
Children’s Social Care provides a range of services and support which are accessible to children and their families.
Find out more about the types of support available, how to request an assessment, short breaks and Parent Carer Needs Assessments in our social care support section.
Financial help
Financial help may be available for children and young people with physical disabilities, and their families. Our financial support section has lots of information you may find useful, including: