More independence for people with learning disabilities : Cumbria County Council

Today, Cumbria County Council's Cabinet announced its support for a proposal for people with learning disabilities currently living in residential establishments to be given greater independence through independent living with community support.

The proposal is in line with Government guidelines to increase life chances for people with learning disabilities by enabling them to live independently in the community with appropriate help and support. The consultation will consider the transfer of the houses currently used as group homes to registered social landlords. Consultation will include people with learning disabilities and their families, advocates and other interested groups and individuals. People with learning disabilities will become empowered, as they will have an increase in their disposable income and a greater say in how and by whom they are supported. County Councillor John Mallinson, Cabinet spokesman for Care and Social Services says,

"I am pleased that the Cumbria County Council is at the fore from of the promotion of independence for people with learning disabilities. The philosophy of care is to enhance quality of life and life chances for people with learning disabilities and that philosophy includes the right to live in the same way as any other adult member of society. Cumbria was one of the first councils to have an integrated commissioning strategy. A key policy objective within the strategy was to increase the number of people living in their own independent accommodation. Over 200 people with learning disabilities are currently supported successfully in "ordinary" houses throughout the county. The Governments learning disabilities white paper `Valuing People' and the `Supporting People' legislation, which came into force in April 2002, underpin this strategic objective."