INTRODUCTORY SURVEY OF FAMILIES WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Plan Special Needs is a dedicated resource organization that supports families of children with special needs by providing guidance, information, and practical tools to help them navigate the challenges and opportunities associated with caring for a child with disabilities. The organization serves as a trusted source of knowledge, empowering families to make informed decisions about their child’s future and overall well-being.

PSN conducted an online survey among families of special needs children to find out how much they are prepared for the future. The survey was conducted across different areas, including General Awareness, Financial Planning, Legal & Estate Planning, Child Development, Communication, and Family Planning.  As the first survey of its kind In India, it serves as an important benchmark for understanding the experiences, priorities, challenges, and planning needs of individuals and families within the special needs community. The insights gathered provide valuable perspectives that will help guide future initiatives, enhance support resources, and inform strategies to improve long-term outcomes. While this survey represents an initial step in ongoing research and engagement efforts, the results establish a foundation for tracking trends, identifying opportunities, and ensuring that the voices of respondents contribute to meaningful planning and decision-making in the years ahead. 

Here is the summary of the survey – 

Financial Preparedness

76% of parents are NOT confident about lifetime financial security.

Despite deep emotional involvement, long-term financial preparedness remains a critical gap.

Key Risk: Without long-term financial planning, families risk leaving their special needs child without adequate support after parents are no longer able to care for them.

Letter of Intent

90% of families do not have a Letter of Intent.

What is a Letter of Intent?

A Letter of Intent guides future caregivers on:

  • Medical needs and treatment history
  • Daily routines and emotional triggers
  • Financial accounts and benefits
  • Educational and therapy programs
  • Wishes and preferences of the child

Guardian Planning

3 out of 4 families have not identified a future guardian

Legal uncertainty and emotional risk: Without a named guardian, courts may appoint someone unfamiliar with the child’s needs. Early planning ensures continuity of care and the child’s best interests.

Professional Planning Support

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Create a Will

Establish legal documentation for asset distribution and guardianship.

Set Up a Trust

Protect assets and ensure proper ongoing care funding.

Review Insurance

Ensure sufficient life and disability coverage for the family.

A Bright Spot: Therapy & Development

Strong Commitment to Therapy & Child Development

Over 80% of families actively support therapies and confidence-building activities for their child.

Survey at a Glance

Not confident in financial security
No Letter of Intent
No future guardian identified

No professional planner engaged

Actively supporting therapy

Download the complete survey report conducted by PSN. The report offers helpful insights, key findings, and important information to support parents, educators, and caregivers in understanding the requirements of special needs families in India.

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