Exploring Experiences of Advocacy by People with Learning Disabilities: Testimonies of Resistance

Exploring Experiences of Advocacy by People with Learning Disabilities: Testimonies of Resistance
Edited By Duncan Mitchell et al, Jessica Kingsley Publishers
ISBN 1843103591,
£17.99

STAR RATING: 4/5

Heartbreaking, touching and at times inspirational, this book introduces us to the people who have been oppressed, the system that oppressed them and the individuals who stood up to them, writes Julian Budden.

Presented in four parts, this book looks at how people with learning difficulties have shown resistance to the oppression they have faced throughout their lives.

Using testimonies from individuals, observation and research we follow people as they first recognise what is happening to themselves, then witness how they oppose the repression they face.

We visit the early institutions and sample how life must have been for people who had to call these places home, then travel abroad to see how others have shown resistance.

By far the most emotive chapters describe the neglect to which children with learning difficulties were subjected.

The premise is stretched somewhat when certain behaviour is used to illustrate the point, but that in no way detracts from what is an informative and challenging book.

Read this if you are involved in supporting people and you will find yourself addressing your practice and attitudes and ultimately, improving the quality of care you deliver.

Julian Budden is day centre manager, learning disability service in Trafford