PARENTS WITH LEARNING DIFFICULTIES

KEY FACTS ON PARENTS WITH LEARNING DIFFICULTIES

Between 40% and 60% of children of parents with learning difficulties are taken into Care.(Booth and Booth 1994, Booth 2000).

Many parents with learning difficulties could be helped to keep their children. Parents with learning difficulties are just like other parents but they may need to be properly supported

Local authorities can offer support to parents with learning difficulties through the 'Shared Lives' scheme.

Supporters/advocates for parents with learning difficulties should try to ensure that they get 'double' slots with the GP or Health Visitor, particularly at antenatal appointments

Supporters/advocates should ensure that parents are not socially isolated, and receive information in a format that suits them, eg. DVDs, pictures, repetition, practise. They want to understand, but see the world differently, so let's empower them to parent.

Parents with learning difficulties are disproportionately likely to live in relative poverty. Help with accessing benefits/support networks/community parenting groups or events can be invaluable. Other parents read notices in libraries about mother and toddler groups, but many of these parents will not know. Be inclusive.

Parents with learning difficulties could try the Baby Buddy App, available on the NHS apps store.

For stories of positive practice with parents with learning difficulties, the Baring Foundation has published a report.