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Supporting Refugee Families with Children Who Have Disabilities

  • Faiza Syed
  • Mar 23
  • 2 min read

Updated: Mar 31


 













Refugee families with children who have disabilities face a unique set of challenges when settling in Canada. These families regularly struggle with navigating the healthcare system, obtaining special education services, and overcoming cultural and language barriers. The stress of adjusting to a new country adds to these difficulties, making it even harder for families to access the care and resources their children need.


One of the biggest barriers is access to healthcare. Refugee families often have difficulty understanding the Canadian healthcare system, and language barriers can make communication with healthcare providers even more challenging. Also, delays in securing health insurance can lead to interruptions in much needed medical care, which is particularly concerning for children with disabilities who require ongoing, specialized care. To better serve these families, healthcare providers should offer culturally sensitive services, streamline the health insurance process, and provide community health outreach to help families navigate the system.


Special education is another key area where refugee families often face barriers. Many families are unaware of the support services available for children with disabilities, and navigating the school system can be overwhelming. Language differences and newness with educational terminology further complicate these challenges. Schools can help by providing orientation programs for refugee families, hiring bilingual staff, and offering advocacy services to ensure that children receive the accommodations they need (Bhayana 2018).


Cultural and psychological barriers also play an important role in the struggles of refugee families. Many have experienced trauma in their home countries, and caring for a child with a disability adds another layer of complexity. These families may feel isolated or stigmatized due to cultural views on disabilities. Providing trauma-informed care, cultural competency training for service providers, and peer support networks can help ease the psychological burden these families face and create a safe space for them to get help (AMSSA, 2023).


Finally, financial barriers are a significant concern. Many refugee families face financial instability, which can make it difficult to afford necessary therapies, medical equipment, or other resources. Governments and non-profits should offer clear information about financial assistance programs and work to make healthcare and special services more affordable for low-income or refugee families.


Going forward, a collaborative approach is needed to better serve these families. Governments, healthcare providers, educators, and community organizations should work together to provide culturally sensitive healthcare, education, and psychological support while addressing financial and logistical challenges. In recognizing and addressing the unique needs of refugee families with children who have disabilities, we can ensure that these children can thrive in their new life in Canada. This approach will not only support the children but also strengthen the community by promoting inclusivity and improve shared understanding.

 


Resources


AMSSA. (2023, March). Supports for newcomer children living with disabilities: Info




Bhayana, A., & Bhayana, B. (2018). Approach to developmental disabilities in newcomer


families. Canadian Family Physician, 64(8), 567–573.


https://doi.org/10.1002/ppul.25120PMCID: PMC6189880, PMID: 30108071


Dada, S., Khan, N., & Dewji, N. (2024). Left behind: Newcomer children with disabilities and


their families. Frontiers in Public Health, 12, 1332403.



Kids New to Canada. (n.d.). Community resources for immigrant and refugee youth. Caring for


 

 

 
 
 

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