In his latest blog for Caerphilly Observer, Plaid Cymru South Wales East AM, Steffan Lewis speaks about raising awareness of learning disabilities and mental illnesses.
This week I met with Mencap Cymru, the charity that is the voice of people with learning disabilities in Wales. It was fascinating to hear about the fantastic work they’re doing to support people with learning disabilities to take an active role in their communities, cultivate friendships, and have a say in their own futures.
People with learning disabilities have a huge amount to offer with the right support. I heard about a Mencap project where meals on wheels are delivered by a team of people with learning disabilities, giving them the opportunity to care for older people.
Yet people with learning disabilities face discrimination and negative public attitudes that make life harder. Mencap will soon be launching a campaign to tackle some of the stigma that surrounds learning disability and changing the attitudes that prevent people from living their lives to the fullest.
You can compare the awareness of learning disability with the level of awareness of mental health several years ago. Huge progress has been made in tackling the stigma surrounding mental illness, thanks to high profile campaigns like Time to Change. There was a recognition that stigma keeps people quiet about their experiences, making it harder to reach out for help when it’s needed and increasing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
In the last few years we’ve seen huge strides forward as many high profile people who have suffered from mental illness have bravely come forward to talk about their experiences and show that a full, interesting life is possible for those who struggle with mental health. Now we need a similar push for those with learning disabilities.
There is no shortage of inspiring people to serve a role models, and with increasing understanding and an end to negative stereotyping, we will see opportunities open up for people with learning disabilities. More diverse, tolerant and open attitudes to learning disability will make our communities better for us all.
All good positive stuff from our Appointed Welsh Nationalist Representative for Caerphilly in the Assembly; But; I wonder how he feels about his colleague, former boss, enobled Welsh Nationalist, former Welsh Nationalist Speaker of the Assembly, former Welsh Nationalist MP, probably the most learned Member of The Welsh Nationalist Party, and former Welsh ((ELECTED) Welsh Nationalist Assembly Member, who said today;:-
Lord Elis-Thomas said “that while some people are distressed, others
understand my reasoning to put Wales ahead of the party, “when that
party (The Welsh Nationalists)are unable to take responsibility for running its own country.”.That is a change of mind after following and supporting the party line, as an ELECTED Welsh Nationalist representative for over forty years.
This is something all those `sensible` voters in Wales who dont vote for NATIONALISM have always known, of course.