Overview
Growing up with a brother or sister who has a disability or additional needs doesn’t change everything. Siblings still argue, care about each other, and have fun together.
Brothers and sisters want normal lives and good relationships with their disabled siblings. Even though some of the feelings may be stronger and may change over time.
Most of all, they want their disabled brother or sister to get the help they need so they can live as normal a life as possible.
Support for siblings
Sibs is a charity that helps brothers and sisters of children with disabilities or special needs. They give useful information to families. They also have a website for younger children called Young Sibs. On the website, children can chat with others and ask an advisor questions.
Some children with a disabled brother or sister help a lot at home. They might do more chores and caring tasks than other children their age. When children or young people help out like that regularly, they’re called young carers. There is help for young carers so they can also have time for themselves.
Activities that families can do together
Parents with a child with SEND may struggle to find activities all their kids can enjoy together. The Community Inclusion and Activity Team offer a calendar of events, some of which are for the entire family. There are also activity passes available for family attractions.