‘Unacceptable’ that therapy and psychological services for children are delayed, says Labour

Caruana said it is unacceptable that children in need of the services provided by the CDAU find themselves with no option but to wait several months before their needs are addressed.

Caruana referred to information recently tabled in parliament which revealed that there are over 400 children on the CDAU’s waiting list for psychological services, while the overall list has an average waiting time of a year and three months.

She said that of these, 174 are under five years or age, while around 450 children are on the waiting list for therapy services and are being left to wait for around 14 months.

“This situation is not acceptable, as behind every number there is a child who needs help,” she said. “Government needs to address the situation as soon as possible if it truly considers children a priority.”

She added that government is well aware of the situation, as it is has been presented with a report issued by a task force formed with the express purpose to identify the problems - among which is the lack of therapist and specialised staff, a lack of therapy equipment, and a similar lack of physiotherapy facilities.

She added that among government’s solutions is the option to enter into arrangements with the private sector, to reduce the waiting times that children are forced to endure.

“These delays are leading to worries among parents because their children are not being given the necessary help, at a time that is crucial for their development,” Caruana added.

She added that those professionals working in the sector are having to work under excessive pressure and stressful conditions.