The DCP’s latest report shows that, despite lockdown easing, families across the whole country still cannot access vital services they need to manage their disabled child’s condition, such as physiotherapy, operations, and speech and language therapy. Without this support, disabled children across the country risk losing vital progress. The research also reveals that too many parents and children are facing grave mental health challenges, educational difficulties, and that they are still more socially isolated than the rest of the population.

The evidence clearly shows that disabled children and their families have been disproportionately impacted and that they need tailored support. In becoming a Disabled Children’s Champion, I will take a stand for disabled children, who must not be left out of the conversation on the UK’s recovery from the pandemic.