Colin McGrath MLA meets with Mencap representatives and says learning disability must be treated as a priority
South Down SDLP MLA Colin McGrath MLA has said that support for those with learning disabilities must be a priority in a future Assembly.
Colin McGrath added: “I was very proud to visit Mainstay DRP last week to see the work they are involved in and to get support from the South Eastern Trust.
`”Today I visited the Menace centre in Belfast to see what this organisation is doing to support those with learning disabilities and to hear about their experiences and how the government can support them better.
“Menace are doing some really exceptional work right across the North in seeking to support not only our young people, but their families, and those with learning disabilities who are now adults, and to ensure that they have the same opportunities to live as full a life as possible.
“I was lucky to meet with the leadership team here, practitioners and those with learning disabilities as well to hear about the issues they are facing.
“From meeting these organisations it is clear that one of the main issues those with learning disabilities are coming up against is accommodation.
“While many are fortunate enough to have a family home, many still want to seek their own accommodation and the independence that this brings.
“There is great work ongoing by those in the sector to move away from the concept of ‘homes’ and to develop shared living or community living arrangements.
“There has also been significant discussion around the issue of healthcare for those with learning disabilities and to see how the Department can standardise best practice across all health trusts to ensure the provision of care for those with learning disabilities is not a postcode lottery, but that everyone is afforded the best care possible.
“In any future Assembly, this must be a priority. However, the way we do that will be by hearing the local voices of those with learning disabilities directly, and that is something I will be keen to progress in any future Assembly,” added Colin McGrath.
