To ask the Minister of Health when a framework for children with disabilities will be made available.

A central component of the Learning Disability Strategic Plan is to finalise and implement a draft Framework for Children with Disabilities. The Framework aims to (i) improve the current offer of early help and community-based support; (ii) develop additional effective residential short breaks and short break fostering; (iii) rethink our approach to residential provision and out of home placements; and (iv) improve transition pathways into adulthood.

In the past 12 months, work has been progressed to address the healthcare needs of this population and ensure better connectivity to Education. In terms of implementation, recommendations are being progressed through several workstreams as part of the Children’s Social Care Services Strategic Reform Programme, specifically: (i) residential placement capacity; (ii) fostering; (iii) children with disability; and (iv) family support.

In terms of next steps, the Framework is currently being finalised and subject to my approval, it will then be published on the Department of Health website. A costed implementation plan will follow.