News Release, 5 December 2002
Young people with learning disabilities are facing exclusion in our communities, with up to forty percent developing mental health problems, according to a report published today following a year long inquiry carried out by the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities.
The inquiry showed that young people with learning disabilities in the UK are disproportionately vulnerable to poverty, abuse, bullying, and profound low self esteem in adolescence. These are all factors which contribute to mental health problems.
The findings follow two decades of Government policies designed to enable people with learning disabilities to live in ordinary settings and be integrated into mainstream services in their communities.
Dr Andrew McCulloch, Chief Executive of the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities said:
“We rightly closed the long stay hospitals, only to create a situation of neglect in the community. We have simply not created a good enough alternative. Our inquiry has heard some scandalous reports from young people with learning disabilities and their families. We have heard of young people with nowhere to go during the day, being excluded from social activities or being over-medicated for want of appropriate services if they do develop mental health problems.”
“It’s widely recognised that young people with learning disabilities have the same needs and wishes as other adolescents: college places, work, activities, friends. Yet they are facing immense obstacles and disappointment. It is no wonder so many experience anxiety as they face adulthood.”
The Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities is calling on health, education and social care policy makers to recognise that people with learning disabilities need better opportunities to participate meaningfully in society and access to independent advocacy. The Foundation also says that local authorities need to adopt more imaginative and flexible policies for supporting young people in their leisure and social activities and in maintaining friendships.
Return to news releases 2002
Note to editors
For further information and interview requests contact please contact the press office on 020 7803 1105 / 1128 or email the press office
The Foundation promotes the rights, quality of life and opportunities of people with learning disabilities and their families. We do this by working with people with learning disabilities, their families and those who support them to:
- Do research and develop projects that promote social inclusion and citizenship
- Support local communities and services to include people with learning disabilities
- Make practical improvements in services for people with learning disabilities
- Spread knowledge and information.
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