Support is very important to a family’s mental and physical health as well as its ability to cope. That goes double for individuals and families with disabilities, where support then becomes a critical issue. Families with disabilities are not just dealing with young children with disabilities. It affects people of all ages. As baby-boomers age, families may be dealing with cross-generational support issues.
Support can come in many shapes and sizes, such as respite care or a support group offering a sympathetic ear to listen.
Family Support
All members of the family are affected when a child is diagnosed with a disability. Family-focused support services see the individual who has a disability as part of the family and the community rather than an isolated individual.
Sibling Support Group
Sibling Support Groups are offered periodically for siblings of children with disabilities.
Family Support Services
Family Support Services provides support to families who have children with disabilities by connecting them to information and community resources.
Parent Newsletter
A monthly newsletter, Community News, for parents is available by mail or e-mail.
How Do I Participate?
Contact us to obtain more information on support groups, or to be placed on the mailing list for the monthly newsletter for parents. The newsletter is also available via E-mail delivery. to the e-newsletter now.
For more information about Family Support, please contact UCP at (858) 571-7803 or .
Information & Referral
UCP recognizes that information is power. We offer information and referral services to the community on cerebral palsy and the services available people with disabilities and their families. Information on understanding the diagnosis and management of cerebral palsy is available as well as helping individuals and their families understand the ever-changing maze of agencies and services they may need.
Services
Information is provided and referrals are made for services appropriate to individuals who contact the agency with needs and/or questions. Follow-up services are also provided to insure that individuals successfully locate available programs and services in the community. Resources materials are also available for loan through the community library. Information & Referral staff offer in-services training to groups about cerebral palsy and services provided by our agency to the community.
How Does It Work?
Individuals with disabilities and their families can access information and referral services by contacting the Information and Referral (I&R) Coordinator by phone, mail, fax, or e-mail. The I&R Coordinator will research and answer questions, and direct callers to other appropriate services in the community. Background information and literature are often provided by mail. The I&R Coordinator will make follow-up calls to insure that individuals successfully locate available programs and services. The I&R Coordinator also schedules in-service training opportunities for community organizations.
Who Is Eligible?
Anyone! Individuals with disabilities, their families and the general public are welcome to contact the I&R Coordinator for assistance. There is no charge for the I&R services.
For more information about Information & Referral, please contact UCP at (858) 571-7803 or .