Luke-warm welcome for white paper

Cathy Reay

The government’s new white paper outlining a support strategy for people with learning disabilities doesn’t give individuals enough choice, say campaigners.

Published by the department of health on Monday, the paper announces a new three-year plan which focuses on equal human rights for people with learning disabilities.

The strategy includes improving access to the NHS, increasing housing options and working with parents with learning disabilities and their children to make sure families receive the right emotional and practical support.

Andrew Lee, director of learning disability charity People First, said: “If people want those with learning disabilities to live independently, they are going to have to accept that the learning disabled want to take risks and to be given the same opportunities.

“Encouraging people with learning disabilities to manage their own budgets is one thing but bringing in an organisation to show them the choices they can make is equally important.”

Dimensions’ learning disability sector adviser Simon Cramp (pictured) said: “. It’s very encouraging to see a strong focus on those groups that have traditionally been missed or excluded from consideration.

People with learning difficulties need to have the same opportunities as others to live full and independent lives as equal citizens.

There’s a real need to give people with learning disabilities greater choice and control. They and their carers will play a vital role in the success of the strategy.”

22 January 2008