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Physical disabilities

A physical disability is a "limitation on a person's physical functioning, mobility, dexterity, or stamina." It has a 'substantial' and 'long-term' negative effect on a person's ability to do daily activities. (Equality Act, 2010).

It can:

  • be mild or severe
  • affect a child or young person's development
  • be hidden.

Every child or young person with a physical disability is unique. Physical disabilities can range from:

  • degenerative conditions
  • trauma (physical and birth)
  • chromosome disorders
  • musculoskeletal conditions
  • limb differences
  • complex medical needs.

Common types of physical disabilities

The following are the most common types of physical disabilities for children in Kent with an education, health and care (EHC) plan. For any medical support contact your GP.

Asthma

Asthma affects your breathing. It is a common physical disability that often starts in childhood and is a lifelong condition.

Visit the asthma NHS webpage to find health advice and links to charities that can help you. Or, watch this Asthma UK video to learn how to spot the signs of asthma.

Cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition that affects your movement and co-ordination. Whilst symptoms are not often obvious during the start of a child's life, they can develop once they turn 2 or 3 years old.

Visit the cerebral palsy NHS webpage to find health advice and links to charities that can help you.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is long term physical condition that affects your whole body through pain, concentration, muscle and sensitivity problems.

Visit the fibromyalgia NHS webpage to find health advice and links to charities that can help you. Or, watch this video from the BBC to learn how people live with fibromyalgia.

Hypermobility

Hypermobility affects your joints and makes them very flexible. It usually affects children and young people, and can get better with age.

Visit the hypermobility NHS webpage to find health advice and links to charities that can help you. Or, visit the Hypermobility Syndromes Association kids zone webpage. 

Multiple sclerosis (MS)

Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects the brain and spinal cord and is a lifelong condition, which can affect your mobility, vision and co-ordination.

Visit the MS NHS webpage to find health advice and links to charities that can help you. Or, watch this MS Society video explaining how people live with MS

Spina bifida

Spina bifida develops when a baby's spine and spinal cord does not develop properly in the mother's womb. Most children and young people who have spina bifida can have surgery to close the opening of the spine. However, their nervous system will be damaged which can lead to further issues.

Visit the spina bifida NHS webpage to find health advice and links to charities that can help you.

Tourette's Syndrome

Tourette's Syndrome can cause a person to make sounds and movements called tics. Symptoms can be physical and vocal and are not usually harmful, but physical tics, such as jerking of the head, can be painful. They can also be affected by, stress, anxiety or tiredness.

Children and young people with Tourette's Syndrome may also have, ADHD, autism, specific learning difficulties.

Visit the Tourette's Syndrome NHS webpage to find health advice and links to charities that can help you.

Education support for your child or young person

Whether your child is in early years, primary school, secondary school or in a post 16+ setting, there is help available. Explore our SEND Information Hub to discover how you can get extra help for your child.

Health support for your child or young person

Most healthcare services (GPs, dentists, opticians) can help your child or young person through everyday appointments. For additional support, you can either ask for targeted health services or specialist health support.

If you think your child is in need a wheelchair, visit your GP and discuss a referral. Once your GP supports your request, they will refer you to the Kent and Medway Wheelchair Service.

For other mobility aid support visit the walking aids and wheelchairs NHS webpage.

If your young person is looking for additional support moving into adulthood, you can contact your social worker, GP, nurse to request a referral to the NHS continuing healthcare.