COSLA launch new local government plan for disabled in Scotland

The body representing local authorities in Scotland has launched its a new plan for disabled people based on the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities and the European Convention on Human Rights (UNCRPD). 

Disabled people make up a large number of the people who use the services councils provide and they also have a significant role as planning partners in designing support and services. The role of the local authority is to create an enabling environment to support disabled people to participate in society and live independently, with control, freedom, choice, and dignity. This plan gives practical effect to these principles. 

The plan sets out the contribution of local government to supporting the rights of disabled people in Scotland and focuses on 30 actions which will be taken between 2015 and 2018/19. It has been written in consultation with representatives from a range of organisations outside of the local government family including Independent Living in Scotland, the Alliance, Glasgow Centre for Inclusive Living, Inclusion Scotland, Lothian Centre for Inclusive Living, and the Scottish Government. It has also been endorsed by the Political Leadership of COSLA. 

Cllr Peter Johnstone, COSLA spokesperson for Health and Wellbeing, said: “I am delighted that COSLA has worked with our key partners to develop a practical plan to ensure that the rights of disabled people are promoted and enhanced across the work of local government and I am delighted that it can be launched appropriately between celebrating and promoting Disability Day and Human Rights Day.  The UNCRPD Local Government Delivery Plan is a clear commitment by Local Government to deliver 30 specific actions to improve the lives of disabled people over the next three years. COSLA leaders have agreed and endorsed this plan and will receive an annual report on its implementation”.

Ian Welsh, Chief Executive, the ALLIANCE said: “Human rights not only protect people’s dignity but they offer us a robust framework to drive high quality health and social care, focused on the outcomes that matter to people themselves. We welcome the recognition made by COSLA of the important role this plays in disabled people’s lives and look forward to working alongside local government to support people to enjoy their right to live well.”

COSLA: UNCRPD Scottish Local Government Delivery Plan 2015-18