Karen Shook
Disability equality adviser
No. People with learning difficulties are regarded as unreliable witnesses, even though steps have been taken to stamp this out. And they don't always have the information to be able to complain about abuse, which is why cases still emerge about long-term abuse in care situations. There's a need for independent advocacy.

Shaun Webster
CHANGE self-advocacy group
When they make court reports, social workers often fail to support people with learning difficulties, many of whom feel let down. They feel they've got to fight on their own. Advocacy shouldÊbe given more importance because if the social worker knows about the individual's needs, they will support them better. Judges should be better trained.

Jaya Kathrecha
Carer
People with mental health problems are discriminated against at work despite the support of lawful employment rights. People in this situation can't get the advice they need or find out where to go for help and, if they do take their case to court, they are unfairly treated by the judges too. The legal system still doesn't understand mental health.

Len Smith
Gypsy activist
Vulnerable people don't get a fair deal from the legal system, particularly in cases of crime or petty offences. I have experience of individuals with learning difficulties who have been treated with contempt and subject to pressure to confess to offences that turn out to have been committed by others. Vulnerable people often find it difficult toÊgive clear evidence to lawyers.