Written question asked by Mims Davies (Conservative) on Thursday, 26 March 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 13 April 2026. It was answered by Zubir Ahmed (Labour) on Thursday, 16 April 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Developmental Language Disorder: Sussex

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, how many children are estimated to be living with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) in (a) East Grinstead and Uckfield Constituency and (b) Sussex.

Answer

The data requested is not held centrally. Children with developmental coordination disorder, commonly known as dyspraxia, access support through local National Health Service occupational therapy, paediatrics, physiotherapy, and educational services.

NHS guidance sets out a referral process which typically begins with a general practice, health visitor, or a special educational needs coordinator, who may refer the child to paediatric occupational therapy and physiotherapist for assessment and support. The guidance is available at the following link:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/developmental-coordination-disorder-dyspraxia/

For the first time, we have set a target for systems to work to in order to reduce long waits for community health services. By 2028/29 at least 80% of community health services activity should take place within 18 weeks, bringing community health services in line with targets for elective care.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 124160
Session: 2024-26
Registered interest declared: Yes
Subjects: Sussex Developmental language disorder
Contains statistics: Yes
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Developmental Language Disorder: Sussex

Secondary information

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