The Ceredigion Learning Disability Strategy to 2023 was approved by the council’s Cabinet on 19 February. Following the approval an action plan will be put in place to make sure that the strategy is put into practice. This means that the right help will be in place to help people who have learning disabilities to integrate as fully as possible into society.
The strategy is a joint strategy between the Council and Hywel Dda University Health Board, and sets out the vision and ambition to make sure that people with learning disabilities, their families, Carers and others are at the heart of designing and developing services.
The strategy has 60 recommendations under four key outcomes, which are planned to be in place by 2023 through the development of the action plan. The consultation told us which areas are most important to people, and this will inform the prioritisation of work going forward.
Councillor Alun Williams is the Cabinet member responsible for Adult Services. He said, “Learning disabilities shouldn’t be a barrier to leading a full and rewarding life. We need to listen to our service users and Carers and involve them as much as possible in the way we put services together.”
“This strategy aims to do just that and, as the recommendations are acted on, I’m sure it will have a very positive effect on the lives of the growing number of people with learning disabilities in Ceredigion.”
Judith Hardisty is the Vice Chair of Hywel Dda University Health Board. She said, “This strategy will ensure a shared vision and commitment to help people with learning disabilities in Ceredigion to live more independently; provide opportunities for meaningful employment, and more opportunities to volunteer.
“It is also a chance for everyone to recognise together the diversity of our population and as such to commit to an approach that enables people with a learning disability to be treated in the way they wish. I really welcome this approach which puts the people who use our services at the heart of how we develop those services.”
The Ceredigion Learning Disabilities Partnership Board will be strengthening its membership to include people with learning disabilities, families, Carers and their advocates to make sure that the action plan is person centred and meets the needs of people using services now and in the future.
27/02/2019