HWiS poll results: NHS support for children’s learning needs in Sussex

Public feedback

What experienced barriers and challenges you have faced?

• “It's been a constant battle to be heard. I've lost count of the number of times I've had to explain my son's situation.”
• ”Barriers getting anyone to listen properly and to get the support required.”
• “Huge waiting lists; huge gap for young adults; inconsistency; told not bad enough even after first suicide attempt; told too bad for other services. The system is BROKEN.”
• “Extremely long waiting list to see Paediatrician to get a diagnosis. ( 2+ years)”
• “Lack of support once diagnosis was made."

What improvements would you like to see in NHS services for children’s learning needs in Sussex? 

• “More proactive support, not just when a child has reached crisis point.”
• “Quicker assessment times/shorter waits for assessments and increased knowledge of staff around additional needs.”
• “More mental health support, more support for students who need assessments or diagnoses, more toolkits to teach us to support them in a way that will work, and get engagement from them.”