Perspectives on austerity: the impact of the economic recession on intellectually disabled children

Abstract

In 2008, the Republic of Ireland descended into the deepest period of economic recession since the Great Depression of 70 years before. In the aftershock of recession, research suggests that it has been the nation’s children who have been hit hardest. Within this, intellectually disabled children are considered a particularly vulnerable socio-economic group. Nonetheless, the impact and experience of the recession for intellectually disabled children has received little specific attention within policy and literature, and as a consequence remains poorly understood. This article aims to expand upon discussions by drawing out a number of key themes through a review of the relevant literature. Lessons learned from the review are then used to inform a discussion around policy implications. It is suggested that better pathways to justice and an improved presence of the voices of intellectually disabled children, and their families, at a macro-political level are required moving forward.

Keywords:

• Intellectual disability
• economic recession
• austerity
• children

Acknowledgements

The author would like to thank Professor Caroline McGregor of the National University of Ireland, Galway for her supervision of this PhD research.