Special needs backlog - Action must be taken

IT is generally accepted that the earlier children with special needs get diagnosis and treatment the better – the longer these are lacking, the greater the reversal.

That makes it all the more worrying that over 23,000 under 18-year-olds are on a waiting list for speech and language therapy and initial assessments, with almost 4,000 waiting between 12 months and two years.

The backlog has now reached such a level that even with new speech and language graduates coming on line it will take a long time to clear.

With thousands of young people waiting for speech and language therapy, and thousands more awaiting an initial assessment, the need for additional state resources in this vital area is compelling. There is no denying early intervention is the best form of treatment.