Closed petition Assess dependents' needs if a parent is diagnosed with long-term health problems

Closed on 16 May 2021

The Government should require local authorities to carry out an assessment of the needs of any dependents when a parent is diagnosed with long-term, terminal or chronic health problems, as there may be minors who will need additional support as a result of their parent’s condition.

When I was aged 11 my mum was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. From that point my whole life changed overnight. My mental and physical health got worse and my future prospects we're suddenly dashed.

Aged 19 and after hundreds of sleepless distressing nights and multiple scares, it took me having a panic attack in social services to finally get the help we much needed. I was the only other family member in the home so my mum's illnesses affected me the most.