He submitted a question to the Minister asking for details on the number of people assessed as requiring residential short breaks and how many were actually accessing it. This followed a BBC Spotlight Documentary and the Minister’s announcement of a £13 million investment into short break services in October last year.

Mr Mathison said: "The fact that 85% of those entitled to short-term respite are not receiving it is absolutely unacceptable. Many families face immense challenges in caring for children and young people with learning disabilities, and they deserve proper support from our health system.

“I have spoken to a great number of those who deal with these difficulties every day, and the stress they’re under is unimaginable. Short-term respite significantly eases this pressure on parents and carers, and for the children and young people themselves.

"The Minister announced a £13 million investment at the end of last year, but there has been no noticeable improvement in services. In response to a question I asked in January about what specific interventions would be delivered through this funding, he stated that the Trust aims to increase short break provision and enhance family support services.

“However, we need clarity on how exactly this money is being used and when families can expect real change.

"This figure of 85% only reflects those who have been assessed, but many young people are still waiting to be allocated a social worker. I have submitted a further question to the Minister to determine how many young people remain on this waiting list.

"This is a critical issue for families and young people, not least within in the South Eastern Trust. I will continue to press the Health Minister on the urgency of delivering this investment and ensuring these families receive the support they so desperately need."