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Independence and learning disabilities: why we must also recognise vulnerability
- Author:
- FYSON Rachel
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Integrated Care, 17(1), February 2009, pp.3-8.
- Publisher:
- Emerald
Services for adults with learning disabilities are currently based on the promotion of four key principles: rights, independence, choice and social inclusion. This paper will argue that, while these principles are welcome, they need to be balanced against a fifth principle - that vulnerable adults must be protected adequately against the risk of abuse. It will draw both on recent high-profile cases of violence and abuse against people with learning disabilities and on research evidence to explore whether current plans to transform adult social care through the use of self-directed support and individual budgets offer a safe future.
Independence or protection – does it have to be a choice? Reflections on the abuse of people with learning disabilities in Cornwall
- Authors:
- FYSON Rachel, KITSON Deborah
- Journal article citation:
- Critical Social Policy, 27(3), August 2007, pp.426-436.
- Publisher:
- Sage
This commentary uses recent events in Cornwall to highlight the ongoing abuse of adults with learning disabilities in England. It critically explores how two parallel policy agendas - the promotion of choice and independence for adults with learning disabilities and the development of adult protection policies - have failed to connect, thus allowing abuse to continue to flourish. It is argued that the abuse of people with learning disabilities can only be minimized by policies that reflect an understanding that choice and independence must necessarily be mediated by effective adult protection measures. Such protection needs to include not only an appropriate regulatory framework, access to justice and well-qualified staff, but also a more critical and reflective approach to the current orthodoxy that promotes choice and independence as the only acceptable goals for any person with a learning disability.
Safeguarding adults: an independent life after long-term abuse within the family
- Author:
- SOCIAL CARE INSTITUTE FOR EXCELLENCE
- Publisher:
- Social Care Institute for Excellence
- Publication year:
- 2009
- Place of publication:
- London
The film focuses on the personal story of Philip who suffered physical, financial and emotional abuse in the family home for many years. Philip has learning disabilities and cerebral palsy. When Philip finally disclosed the abuse, he was supported to leave the family home. Since then he has gone from strength to strength. He married and, although his wife unfortunately died some years after their marriage, Philip continues to live a full and independent life.
Warning: This film contains strong language. This film has now been reviewed and is now available under the new title: 'Safeguarding adults: an independent life after abuse.'