Derwen Service providing specialist services to children and young people in Gwynedd

Parents and carers of children with disabilities recently had the opportunity to come together to hear about the specialist services available to them.

Derwen, the Integrated Team for Disabled Children is a partnership between Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and Cyngor Gwynedd’s Social Services Children and Supporting Families Department and works with children and young people to provide specialist care.

Two events were recently held at Plas Menai near Caernarfon and Canolfan Glan Wnion in Dolgellau to share information with parents and carers about Derwen and to hear their views on the services their children receive.

Councillor Elin Walker Jones, Cabinet Member for Cyngor Gwynedd’s Children and Supporting Families Department said:

“The Derwen team provide an assessment, intervention and support for children and young people with ongoing needs as a result of disabilities or illness. The team aims to support families, carers and the wider community to promote the health and wellbeing of disabled children and young people in Gwynedd.

The support can include advice, information, or a multi-agency review of the child’s needs. Just as important for the family too, Derwen can help with an assessment of the parents' needs when completing a carer's assessment with them and organise a supportive service / short break as needed.

The purpose of both events was to give parents and carers an opportunity to come together to meet representatives from health, social and voluntary organisations, who would be able to offer support to the children and their families.

It was great seeing everyone come together and to hear about the range of services and support available to help the young people live full and happy lives. We would plead for any other family out there who have a child with a disability or other impairment to get in touch with Derwen. The dedicated staff are there to help.”

Any young person, family or a Professional can contract Derwen through the Cyngor Gwynedd website: Integrated Team for Disabled Children (llyw.cymru) or contacting 03000 840967 ( Arfon area), 01758 704425 ( Dwyfor area), 01341 424503 (Meirionnydd area).