This year, National Learning Disability Week which runs 18-24 June 2001, is all about choice.
People with a learning disability are often denied:
- Choice in the things they want to do and who they want to do them with.
- Choice in where they live and who they live with.
- Choice through being involved in decisions which affect their lives.
There are a number of national and local events taking place during the week. Highlights include:
- The publication of research exposing the general public’s attitudes to people with a learning disability.
- A reception for MPs at the House of Commons.
- A thought-provoking poster campaign supported by advertising in national newspapers.
- A national conference – called ‘The Right Treatment’ – on 21 June which addresses the discrimination faced by people with a learning disability in the health service.
- Pop stars Steps feature in OK magazine wearing specially-designed Mencap Choice T-shirts (look out for the 1 June edition).
- Brookside actors help Mencap celebrate a substantial donation to its Community Support Teams, which provide a variety of support at a local level.
For further information about National Learning Disability Week, please contact Gail Robinson on 020 7696 5594 or email: nldw2001@mencap.org.uk.
