Becoming a parent if you have a disability

If you are planning to become a parent or take on parenting responsibilities, you may feel you need extra support to look after your child. This could be help at home, equipment or help with 'everyday' things like visiting your child's school.

Support from your local council

Your local council, including social services, health and education departments, can offer this support. Government guidance states that people with disabilities should be supported within their family and parental roles.

Having a baby and health issues

It is important to have access to information and the right maternity services, which take into account a mother's medical condition and/or disability.

You could start by talking through any issues with your doctor. Things to discuss could include:

  • planning a pregnancy and conception
  • how a particular disability and/or medical condition could affect pregnancy and birth, including issues like taking medication while breast-feeding
  • scans and tests
  • post-birth health support for you and your child

Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or consultant.

Parenting classes

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) covers many areas of everyday life, including access to goods and services. Classes for parents-to-be should make 'reasonable adjustments' to make them accessible to all people. Reasonable adjustments could include:

  • using a pen and notepad to communicate with you if you are deaf or hearing impaired and/or providing induction loops in a certain room
  • holding the class in an accessible location - to avoid stairs, for example - for parents with a physically disability
  • arranging for someone to explain more simply what is being said at the class for a person with a learning disability

Let the organisers of classes know of any requirements you have before you attend for the first time.

Having a child and the effect on your benefits

If you receive Disability Living Allowance and your care needs change as a result of your parenting role, you should contact the Disability and Carers Service. A decision-maker will then be able to consider whether your change in circumstances affects the rate of Disability Living Allowance you should receive.

In this section...

Bookmark/Share: