2019-10-14 14:09:42
Hft, a national charity that supports adults with learning disabilities, has reacted to the Queen’s Speech, where commitments were made that the government will bring forward proposals to reform adult social care in England.
The charity has expressed concerns that the speech lacked proposals and timelines at a time when the sector needs certainty.
Billy Davis, Public Affairs and Policy Manager, commented:
“Since the prospect of a social care green paper was mentioned back in summer 2017, much has been promised, but little has been delivered from the government in terms of the future of adult social care funding. This Queen’s Speech, and the lack of concrete commitments, is another unwelcome delay for the sector.
“It was also concerning, if unsurprising, to hear adult social care referred to in terms of older care. Our recent MP Poll found that over half (55%) of MPs believe that adults with learning disabilities accounts for less than 15% of total social care in England, whereas in reality we are approximately one-third.
“Any proposals for the future of adult social care must include working age adults, as well as those over the age of 65, to ensure all who need it get the high-quality, person-centred support they deserve.”
Notes to editors
For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk
About Hft
Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.
Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.
In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.
Learning disability versus difficulty
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.
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For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk
