Closer to Home: A Critique of British Government Policy towards Accommodating Learning Disabled People in Their Own Homes

Abstract

This review of British government policy on accommodation for people with learning disability compares two White Papers: Better Services for the Mentally Handicapped(DHSS, 1971) and Valuing People(DOH, 2002). NHS employment issues muted the influence of Better Services. Statistics show a slow transfer from the NHS to other providers, but little development of independent living alternatives since 1971, despite a policy emphasis on social inclusion themes in recent policy. Promotion of housing choice, where residential care provision dominates, inhibits inclusive housing. Valuing Peopledoes not address the potentially conflicting choices of disabled people and their families and is critical of local authorities for not supporting large-scale residential care. Supported living alternatives cannot receive sufficient support where residential care agencies’ interests predominate. Better incentives are needed for local authorities to provide support for people with learning disabilities to safely live in a home of their own rather than in residential care.