The Juggle Struggle: Coping with Work and Caring for Your Disabled Child
Balancing work and caring for a child with disabilities can be one of the toughest challenges a parent faces. Even with support systems in place, the emotional, physical, and logistical demands can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Balancing work and caring for a disabled child is incredibly challenging. Frequent hospital visits, therapy sessions, and specialist appointments often clash with working hours, while anxiety about schooling — from securing a suitable place to ensuring proper support — adds extra stress. Parents are left constantly juggling responsibilities, trying to meet both work demands and their child’s complex needs.
For many parents, working isn’t a choice — it’s a financial necessity. Yet caring for your child full time may also be non-negotiable. Finding that balance can feel impossible at times, but there are practical ways to make life a little easier.
At Little Miracles, we understand the unique pressures you face. Below, we share some ideas and resources that might help you manage both your career and your caring responsibilities.
Ask for More Support from Family
It may seem simple, but opening up to family about your situation can make a huge difference. Many parents hesitate to ask for help, worried about putting pressure on loved ones.
However, having an honest conversation about your childcare needs could help everyone find a balance that works — whether it’s a few regular hours of help each week or occasional support in emergencies.
Explore Working from Home Options
The rise of remote work has opened new opportunities for parents. If your job allows, consider asking about working from home. Many employers are now open to flexible or hybrid arrangements that can help you manage your day more effectively.
Alternatively, you might consider freelance or self-employed work, giving you greater control over your hours and routine. Setting up a small home office space can help you separate work and home life, even when you’re in the same environment.
Request Flexible Working Hours
Under the Employment Rights Act 1996, parents of disabled children have the legal right to request flexible working arrangements. This can include changes to your hours, start or finish times, or even the days you work.
It’s also important to remember that you’re entitled to time off for dependants in emergencies or unexpected situations — something that can ease stress when life throws surprises your way.
Find the Right Outside Childcare
We know that trusting someone else to care for your child can be daunting. However, there are qualified childcare providers who have experience supporting children with disabilities and Little Miracles can, in some situations, provide respite opportunities. To find out more visit our Respite Page.
Contact your local council’s Family Information Service to find professionals who are trained in this area. They can also guide you through any financial support you may be eligible for when paying for specialist childcare.
Continuing Health Care may also be an option if your child's needs are suitably health related. Our Family Support Team can also offer advice on this.
Check Your Benefit Entitlements
Sometimes, small financial adjustments can make a big difference. At Little Miracles, our Family Support Team can help you review your current situation and ensure you’re receiving everything you’re entitled to.
For example, we recently supported a family who reduced a parent’s working hours from 16 to 15 hours per week — allowing them to claim Carer’s Allowance. This one-hour change made a huge difference to their family budget.
If you’re unsure where to start, we can help you calculate the best options for your circumstances.
Up-to-date information can also be found on the Government Website.
You Are Not Alone
Every family’s situation is unique, and there’s no single “right” way to juggle work and caring for your child. What matters most is finding what works for you and knowing that help is out there.
At Little Miracles, we’re here to offer advice, emotional support, and practical guidance — from benefit advice to peer support groups.
If you’re struggling or just need someone to talk to, please get in touch. You don’t have to face the juggle struggle alone. Complete a Family Support Request Form and one of our team will be in touch very soon.