AQW 50898/22-27

Mrs Michelle Guy
Alliance Party
Lagan Valley

Tabled Date: 03/09/2026
Answered On Date: 06/10/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any pathway for families to access sensory equipment recommended by health professionals following assessment; and (ii) whether any guidance has been issued to Health and Social Care Trusts on this matter.

Answer:

The Health and Social Care system provides a range of supports and equipment to children and adults where assessed clinical need meets the criteria for provision under relevant services. However, not all interventions, strategies or items of equipment that may be recommended by practitioners are routinely funded or supplied through statutory services. Decisions regarding provision are made in line with applicable clinical, operational and eligibility criteria within individual services and Trusts.

Currently there are no plans to review funding and provision of sensory equipment. The issue will be considered at the My Assistive Technology and Equipment Oversight Board which includes representation from Trusts, PHA, Service Users and my officials including commissioners.