Accessibility for parents with disability : is it reality or fantasy?

Abstract

The right for persons with disability to start a family is enshrined in Article 23 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The same convention also affirms the right to accessibility for persons with disability. In 2021, Malta passed the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability Act making the UNCRPD part of Maltese legislation. Notwithstanding these rights, persons with disability who decide to start and have a family still encounter a number of obstacles when accessing services and venues related to parenthood. Parents with disability find it harder to access services at every stage of parenthood, from family planning to pregnancy to maternity to child-rearing. Disability Equality Training for healthcare providers and other service providers working in this sector and full accessibility to all areas will ensure a more positive parenthood experience for parents with disability in Malta.