Parent carers need more support

People with profound learning difficulties and
their carers must be defined as a “critical priority” for services,
according to learning difficulties charity Mencap.

Findings of a new survey published by the
charity last week show that, despite the high support needs of
people with profound and multiple learning difficulties, they and
their families are not classified as requiring critical help, and
are largely unsupported.

Mencap believes the Department of Health’s new
guidance on eligibility criteria – Fair Access to Services – should
ensure that people with profound and multiple learning difficulties
living in the home are reclassified as “critical priority”.

“Our report shows the shocking lack of support
parents get with looking after their son or daughter,” said chief
executive Fred Heddell.

– No Ordinary Life from 020 7696 6900
or www.mencap.org.uk