Examining the Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Service Providers Working with Children and Youth with Neuro-developmental Disabilities and their Families: Results of a Focus Group Study

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has imposed unprecedented service interruptions in many sectors including services for children and youth with neuro-developmental disabilities (NDD). Methods: We examined the experiences of service providers as they supported this population during the pandemic. Five focus groups were convened with 24 service providers offering support to children/youth with NDD and their families. Results: Results highlight substantial service changes and challenges, as observed by service providers. Service closures and program delivery modification resulted in the rapid adoption of virtual services and reduced program delivery. Service providers have faced heightened workloads, personal weariness and ‘burn out’, and new levels of conflict at work, yet with little opportunity and support for self-care. Beyond challenges, new learning and growth have emerged, with heightened collaboration amongst organizations. Conclusion: Strains in service delivery during the pandemic have exposed programming and systems gaps, for which proactive capacity building is warranted and recommended.