Family Support Services
Information and resources regarding family support services offered by the Bureau of Developmental Services
Family support services for individuals with developmental disabilities and acquired brain disorders are provided to commit to strengthening and supporting families within the context of their lives and within their own communities.
Services include:
- Recreational opportunities
- Parent to parent support
- Respite services
- Assistance in accessing home modifications or adaptive equipment
- Information and referral
- Advocacy
- Assistance with planning for transition from early supports and services to school to adult services
- Help with applying for state and federal benefits
Each local region has established a Regional Family Support Council consisting of members who have a family member receiving services from an area agency. The Family Support Council provides advice and oversight to the area agency in the development of family support plans. Each area agency also has a family support coordinator and other family support staff to assist families to acquire supports and services.
Family Support has proven to be a cost effective program that is designed to keep families intact and prevent or delay the need for more intensive and costly services and supports.
New Hampshire Family Support Conference
The NH Family Support Conference is a state-wide conference organized by volunteers benefiting families and caregivers who have a family member with a developmental disability, acquired brain disorder or special medical needs. The conference has over a 30 year history building knowledge, friendships and shared experiences. It continues to bring together over 500 families, care givers, support professionals, and many human service professionals each year to participate in educational workshops and opportunities for families to share their experiences with one another.