Adults with learning disabilities 'denied human rights'
Thursday, 06 Mar 2008 08:08
The report raises human rights concerns
A report has claimed that adults with learning difficulties often suffer a "denial of fundamental human rights".
The joint select committee on human rights report published today claims adults with learning difficulties are more vulnerable to abuse and are less likely to understand their human rights.
The report claims that the picture in the UK is a "harrowing" one, with adults suffering neglect and abuse.
In the publication, the committee claimed it was concerned but "not surprised" that people with learning difficulties in health and residential settings were subject to abusive and degrading treatment as well as a general lack of dignity.
It also found that the children of parents with difficulties were more likely to be taken into care.
The adults interviewed by the committee claimed they had little confidence in the criminal system and raised concerns of disability hate crime.
Chair of the committee and Labour MP Andrew Dismore said: "There is a real gap between the government's policy which is designed to improve the lives of adults with learning disabilities and their everyday experiences.
"We were particularly shocked by witnesses who told us that even in cases of horrific abuse or neglect, staff simply did not know what they were doing was wrong. We heard compelling evidence that people with learning disabilities wanted to play a greater role in speaking up for their own rights," he said.
"We were astonished at the lack of a clear government strategy to ensure they can understand their rights. We call on the government to do more."