Not enough support for adults with learning disabilities

The support system for adults with learning disabilities in Scotland is not doing enough to help them live “safe, secure and fulfilling lives”, according to new research.

The analysis, by researchers at the Fraser of Allander Institute at the University of Strathclyde, says that despite many improvements over the past 30 years, financial pressures have restricted the support on offer.

It said that for those with mild to moderate support needs, support that enables them to live a fulfilling and independent life, “has been taken away or charged for”.

Thestudyfoundtheresponse to the coronavirus pandemic has accelerated many of the issues that have developed over the past 10 years, and it is feared much of the support that has been lost will not return, or will be “significantly scaled back”.

As of 2019, there were 23,584 adults with a learning disability known to local authorities across Scotland. However, researchers said the true figure is likely to be much higher.

The report said a “person-centred

social care system” that can adapt to different situations is "crucial" if people are to be able to realise their potential and warns that if not there is a risk that people are kept “locked out” of society.

Graeme Roy, director of the Fraser of Allander Institute, said: “There is much that could be done to ensure that the right support structures are in place so everyone in Scotland can, at the very least, realise their basic human rights and have the best chance of fulfilling their potential.”

The researchers examined evidence from reports and data in the public domain and combined this with interviews with health and social care professionals and people with learning disabilities and their families.

The report said that the last 30 years have seen enormous changes in how people with learning disabilities are supported in society, with a shift from people living in long stay hospitals to community-based support.however, it found that since the financial crisis there has been a loss of some of the non-statutory support available to people to live their lives independently.