Mencap finds local authorities failing to consult effectively

Local authorities are failing to properly consult people with learning disabilities on changes to day services, new research from charity Mencap has indicated.

Almost nine in ten (88%) of adults with a learning disability feel their views have not been adequately sought on changes to day services, a survey involving 280 people and their families suggests.

The report, entitled ‘Stuck at home’ also reports that despite a legal duty on councils to consult service users, nearly two thirds (64%) of adults with a learning disability were not asked for their opinions on closures, cuts or higher charges. A quarter of adults with a learning disability now spend less than one hour a day outside of their home and 41% can no longer attend a day service any more.

Additionally a Freedom of Information request sent to 151 English local authorities revealed almost one in three authorities (32%) have closed day services, with one in five (20%) failing to offer any form of alternative service. Three in five authorities have hiked charges for attending day services and for vital services like transport – by an average 70%.

Mencap chief executive, Mark Goldring said: ‘We urge local authorities to find other ways of saving money that do not take vital services away from vulnerable people, and we urge the Government to make a strong commitment to addressing the social care funding crisis through its forthcoming white paper and draft bill.’