Former Mayor of Derry and Strabane Councillor Brian Tierney
Councillor Tierney said there was a range of support that parents may not be aware of.
He encouraged them to contact their local SDLP constituency office or other advice centres if they feel they may be missing out.
Said Cllr Tierney said: “I regularly speak to parents from across Derry who have a child with additional needs and they are not always aware of the wide range of support available.
“This is particularly concerning given the huge wait and fight that many families face to achieve an official diagnosis for their children.
“Even while waiting there is financial help available that will ease the burden on families.
“Parents can access disability living allowance for their children and they may also be able to avail of carers support.
“There are also a number of grants and specific funding available for certain items to help with additional needs.
“Anyone who needs additional help can contact myself or my SDLP colleagues at any time and I will provide advice and help in any way I can.
“We need to see greater awareness around exactly what benefits and support people are entitled to.
“The Department for Communities should work with the Department of Health to ensure that people are informed about what they and their children are entitled to when receiving a diagnosis.
“It’s not right that families are forced to struggle when there is help available to them, particularly at a time where bills are rising and people are struggling to make ends meet.”
Anyone requiring help can contact Cllr Tierney on 07731 309 734 or via email: [email protected]
