How a sibling group makes a real difference

Reported benefits of attending a sibling group

These are common themes reported by siblings who have attended groups across the country, and their parents.

Feeling special
Increased confidence and skills from working as part of a group
Improved family dynamics through the sibling having a better understanding of the disability and getting their own needs met
Increase in play between sibling and disabled child
Increase in siblings talking about sibling issues with parents
Improved understanding of the specific disability or condition
Use of coping strategies at home and with peer group

Longer term outcomes
Prevention of mental health problems
Prevention on behavioural problems
Improved academic performance

Peter Burke, in Siblings of Disabled Children, 2004, asserts that "It is evident that attending a siblings group is of benefit to the siblings involved because siblings are, perhaps for the first time, in a group where they are not different from others…siblings gain a voice by attending a group, which enables them to be honest about themselves, to express their fears, anxieties and wishes for the future with other young people who understand."

Listen to siblings talking about their group in this Women's Hour
item http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/womanshour/2006_04_wed_04.shtml