Scottish Government publishes analysis of Learning Disabilities, Autism and Neurodivergence Bill Consultation
The Scottish Government has recently published their analysis of the responses they received from the consultation on the introduction of a Learning Disabilities, Autism and Neurodivergence Bill. The consultation process has been an important step in developing the Bill and has given the Scottish Government the opportunity to receive feedback on the Bill’s main proposals. Having collected the views of individuals and organisations, the Scottish Government will now look to refine and finalise the draft Bill.
There were several themes explored as part of the consultation process, and we have summarised findings from the process which will be of most relevance to SDSS members below.
Mandatory Training
There was wide support from respondents that training in learning disabilities and neurodivergence should become mandatory for public-facing public sector staff, such as those working in health and social care. Respondents also widely agreed that any training delivered should be delivered from a lived experience perspective.
Independent Advocacy
Most respondents agreed that the Scottish Government should seek to strengthen and improve access to existing advocacy and seek to improve the Scottish Government’s understanding of Independent Advocacy.
Social Care
There were many respondents who agreed that bodies like individual NHS boards and local authorities should develop their own Neurodivergent and Learning Disabilities Strategies, to ensure their services meet the needs of neurodivergent people and those with learning disabilities.
SDSS will keep up to date with any further developments as they are announced, particularly as they may impact on the provision of social care.
In the meantime, you may be interested in attending our upcoming training sessions for SDSS members on ‘Supporting Autistic People to Access Self Directed Support’ on Thursday 31st October and Thursday 14th November 2024. These sessions will be developed and delivered by autistic-led organisation, Autistic Knowledge Development. You can sign up for these sessions here.
You can find a copy of the full analysis of responses, including alternative formats, here: https://www.gov.scot/publications/learning-disabilities-autism-neurodivergence-bill-consultation-analysis/pages/1/
