International Day of People with Disabilities Statement

Posted on December 03, 2021

Chief Executive Louise Andrew talks about the ongoing and profound impact of Covid-19 on families across North-East Scotland.

This year, on International Day of People with Disabilities we are joining the growing number of organisations highlighting that people who live with disabilities are among the most affected populations amid the COVID pandemic.

Since March 2020, we have all seen and felt the effects of political, social, and economic change as a result of domestic and international responses to COVID-19.  

The pandemic has exacerbated issues that already affected many children living with disabilities and their families. Reduced access to routine health care and support services, more pronounced social isolation, poorly tailored public health messaging, inadequately constructed mental health services, and a lack of emergency preparedness for families and individuals with disabilities and complex needs have all come together to make an already challenging situation feel something close to impossible for some.

Charlie House CEO Louise Andrew says, “Loneliness and isolation have been major concerns for the families we support, and this is reflected in the increase in requests for emotional support since March 2020. Uncertainty about access to health services and support, and prolonged periods of lockdown have left many feeling very isolated and anxious, which is why Charlie House has focused on being that constant contact and support network.”

On International Day of Disabilities, Charlie House remains committed to learning from the journey so far, ensuring that the lived experiences of families remain at the very heart of future decision making as we work towards our long-term goal of building a dedicated support centre in Aberdeen so that families can access the support that they need locally.

 If you or anyone you know would benefit from the services that Charlie House offers, please get in touch at familyteam@charliehouse.org.uk.

 To support the ongoing work of Charlie House, go to www.charliehouse.org.uk/support-us/ways-to-give/donate/