Enhanced assistance planned for individuals struggling with cognitive impairments
In the Bailiwick, a significant step forward has been taken in the quest to enhance opportunities for individuals with learning disabilities. The States, in collaboration with the community, has established the Learning Disability Partnership Board, a special commission tasked with improving the lives of people with learning disabilities in the areas of health, education, employment, housing, and knowledge.
Sian Ogier, Associate Director of Specialist Mental Health and Adult Disability Services, has expressed that the needs of people with learning disabilities have been misunderstood in the past. She emphasizes that a lack of understanding is a significant barrier to improving their quality of life.
To address this issue, the States has set a goal to improve the lives of 1,200 adults and 250 children with learning disabilities by the end of 2027. This ambitious target will be achieved through a holistic framework, which has been developed using valuable feedback from people with learning disabilities and their relatives.
The focus of the improvements is on enhancing the quality of life for people with learning disabilities and their supporters. The States estimates that many learning-disabled individuals live independently with family and friend support. The aim is to improve their health, education, employment, housing, and knowledge within three years.
The Adult Disability Service has created a new list of actions based on 68 suggestions from the community. This list is designed to support people with learning disabilities, ensuring they have the right opportunities and support to achieve an excellent quality of life, as stated by Sian Ogier.
The Learning Disability Partnership Board consists of individuals with disabilities, professional staff, and support networks in the third sector. The board will work tirelessly to assess and refresh the strategy for improving the lives of people with learning disabilities at the end of 2027.
This initiative is a testament to the Bailiwick's commitment to creating a more inclusive society. By understanding and addressing the needs of people with learning disabilities, the Bailiwick is taking a significant step towards ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to live a fulfilling life.
