Centre on Human Rights for People with Disabilities - Real Life Stories

Harry's story

‘Julie,’ the mother of ‘Harry’ - a child with a learning disability, also believed Harry had Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The educational psychologist from the Health and Social Care Trust did not agree. Julie was convinced that Harry showed signs of ASD and this was affecting his performance at school, so she went privately to a doctor for a second opinion. He diagnosed ASD.

Julie subsequently sought reasonable adjustments to be made for Harry at the school. However, the Education and Library Board would not help as their policy is to only accept a diagnosis from a professional working within the Trust. As Harry did not have ASD included in his Statement of Special Educational Needs, he could not avail of the additional reasonable adjustments he required.

What human rights were violated?

As a child with a disability, Harry has the same human rights as other children. He has the right to an education and the support necessary to maximise his academic and social development.

Support provided by the advocate

The advocate contacted the Trust’s educational psychologist, the school and the Education and Library Board, which helped to secure additional reasonable adjustments for Harry at school. However, the Education and Library Board continued to discount the diagnosis of ASD and Harry found it increasingly difficult to cope at school, without the extra support he needed.

The family felt they had no other option but to educate Harry at home. The advocate supported the family to present their case for home education to the Education Welfare Service and signposted them to sources of support.