ARU Final Report

8 Young people with disabilities’ experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic 1.4 Discussion and suggestions for change It is important that the views of children and young people with disabilities are gathered to generate a wider picture of the pandemic. These views need to be sought from children and young people themselves rather than relying on data reported about them or on their behalf. These unique views will not only help in planning for future pandemics or indeed other imminent lockdowns during this current pandemic, but will enable the voices of children and young people with disabilities to be heard post the pandemic in relation to decisions that are made about and for them. The provision of safe affordable accommodation is paramount to the welfare of young people with disabilities; particularly so for those living independently and not being supported by assisted living arrangements. Our data showed that some young people in this cohort were often involved with drugs which effected many aspects of their lives including their accommodation. Consequently, accommodation provided to young people with disabilities needs to be assessed as not only suitable to their needs, but also taking into account their possible vulnerabilities. Providing basic education to young people with disabilities to manage their finances effectively is required, especially in situations where they receive a monthly income such as benefits. Regular support should also be provided to check in with young people about their finances, particularly during times of additional strain such as a pandemic and address any issues they might have without impeding their desire for independence. We suggest provision of additional support to young people with disabilities on their return to face-to- face learning. For many, there are still anxieties about the virus so the possibility of blended or entirely online learning should be considered for some in the coming months. Support will need to be responsive to the individual needs of these young people. Our findings raise issues about consistency and level of support available to young people with disabilities as well as opportunities for support being equal for all. We therefore suggest, that as well as ensuring that all young people with disabilities have someone to talk to about their mental health and wellbeing, that this support is consistent and available to all. Furthermore, accommodation and education providers, as well as social care need to provide additional support specifically around emotional wellbeing for young people with disabilities to ensure they are feeling supported both during and beyond the pandemic. Within particular supports, such as social services or mental health provisions, this contact should wherever possible be face-to-face. Our final suggestion is that young people with disabilitieswho are living alone should be supported to find and form support bubbles with appropriate adults or other young people in similar situations in order to ease the experience of boredom and isolation during lockdowns. It is possible that a potential lift in mood, as a result of this support, could positively impact other areas of their lives including education participation.