Aim: To describe the reported experiences of the estimated 14 500 New Zealand children with a physical disability and those of their families and whanau (extended families).
Method: We have used data from the Household Disability Survey conducted in 2002 to obtain this information.
Results: These children and their carers reported a number of perceived unmet needs in all areas covered in the survey: service and assistance, transport, accommodation and education. Thus an estimated 24% reported an unmet need for equipment, and 10% an unmet need for home modification. Around 9% reported having to fund respite care themselves. Of particular note was the proportion of children who had difficulties joining in games and sport at school (59%), going on school outings or camps (28%), playing at school (47%), and or making friends (35%). In all, an estimated 67% of children had one or more problems taking part at school.
Conclusion: More could be done to help such families and to facilitate the full participation of these children.