Children with learning disabilities and related needs placed out of borough: Parents' perspective

Abstract

Aims and method: To investigate parental experience of children with learning disability being placed out of borough. The parents of 70 children were interviewed. Results: Parents would prefer in-borough provision but 90% were satisfied with the current school. The main problems experienced in-borough were poor advice, delays, lack of information and family stress. After out-of-borough placement there was a reported increase in the use of speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and sensory facilities and a decrease in the use of paediatric services, social services, and mental health services. Clinical implications: Specialist services should be helpful and reduce family burden by keeping children in-borough.