Health Services: Children
(asked on 7th January 2026) - View Source
Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps his Department is taking to ensure specialist emotional and practical support is available for parents caring for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.
This question was answered on 13th January 2026
We recognise the challenges families caring for a seriously ill child face, which is why NHS England have published statutory guidance and service specifications on commissioning children’s palliative care and end of life care. This specifically references access to emotional support and practical advice for parents and loved ones. Local authorities and ICBs jointly commission short‑breaks packages for children with life‑limiting conditions, and provide respite care where necessary. Additionally, from April 2025, the Carer’s Allowance earnings limit increased from £151 a week to £196 to support carers. The Minister for Care also chairs a cross-government meeting with DWP, DBT and DfE ministers to consider how we can provide carers with better recognition and support.
We recognise the challenges families caring for a seriously ill child face, which is why NHS England have published statutory guidance and service specifications on commissioning children’s palliative care and end of life care. This specifically references access to emotional support and practical advice for parents and loved ones. Local authorities and ICBs jointly commission short‑breaks packages for children with life‑limiting conditions, and provide respite care where necessary. Additionally, from April 2025, the Carer’s Allowance earnings limit increased from £151 a week to £196 to support carers. The Minister for Care also chairs a cross-government meeting with DWP, DBT and DfE ministers to consider how we can provide carers with better recognition and support.