Disabled Children and the Law

‘This book helps readers understand the relevant laws, and to apply these laws confidently and creatively to improve the quality of life for children with disabilities. While research-based and informative, the book is also very readable.’
–  Community Practitioner

 ‘This is a first-rate book which sets out to review the main statutes, guidance, research and good practice that relate to disabled children...essential reading for people who work with disabled children and their families, social policy and law students, as well as an invaluable source of information for families and disabled young people.’   
– Community Care

‘packed with information…an asset to anyone affected by disability or working with clients affected by disability.’
– British Journal of Developmental Disabilities

Now in its completely updated second edition, this accessible guide provides essential information about how the law can be used to promote good practice and policy development for disabled children and young people.

The authors take an anti-discriminatory and inclusive approach that involves parents and children in decision-making and advocacy. They summarise recent research on common needs and problems of disabled children, young adults and their families, and what support services are valued by them. Individual chapters cover issues affecting children at different stages in the lifecourse, including receiving diagnosis, ensuring educational and social inclusion, and establishing autonomy and independence in early adulthood. The overlapping legal responsibilities of social services, health and education are explained and changes arising from the Children Act 2004 are highlighted.

Disabled Children and the Law is an essential reference for practitioners, policy makers, students and families.