This thesis focuses on a series of publications by the author which have contributed to discussions on social and health care policy in relation to young people and parents looking after a relative or a person with disabilities in South Asian communities. The thesis reviews the research and publications that address the needs of minority ethnic disabled children and their families. The review is set within the context of literature on ethnicity, race and culture, and has three main facets: (a) to identify and summarise significant surveys, studies and related literature on informal care-giving, (b) to identify relevant literature which throws light on the circumstances which create a need for informal care, and (c) to summarise key findings relating to the provision, access and uptake of social/health care services. The thesis concludes with a discussion about the relevance of the publications to key legislation and policy with implications for practice.