Survey reflects less inclusive attitudes

ONE in every four parents would object if a child with mental health issues was in a class with their own kids, a damning survey has found.

National Disability Authority findings show attitudes towards physical and intellectual differences in Ireland have hardened since the recession began — with children bearing the brunt of the changes.

According to the study, launched by Disability Minister Kathleen Lynch yesterday, there has been a rise in the number who would have concerns if a child with mental health issues was in their children’s class, from 21% in 2006 to 24% today.