Philosophy
Knowledge is Power
When it comes to learning and developmental disabilities, many professionals are at a significant disadvantage. With the national trend towards supported living and personalisation, more and more people with learning and developmental disabilities are in the community and many more will be in the future. The new duties under the DDA, combined with additional legislation from the United Nations (Convention on Human Rights) and the European Union make the situation even more confusing.
Pressures to create a response to the six Equalities strands means that specialist areas such as learning and developmental disabilities are not receiving the attention they require for an optimal outcome. Recent news stories in the national media have shown there is still much work to be done to help educate professionals and protect vulnerable people. Encounters with police, health services, first responders and even educational professionals can be difficult for both the learning/developmentally disabled person and the professional. We believe that if professionals have the right awareness, training and tools, they can respond successfully to this changing regulatory environment.
This extends to our philosophy about advocacy. We provide advice and support at no charge to individuals with learning and developmental disabilities, their families and carers. With our knowledge and experience, we can help those who find themselves negotiating the complex world of benefits, personalisation and support in a world of shrinking budgets and changing legislation.