Learning Disability Week 17 - 23 June 2024

Thank you Lo?s Donna Amoko-Rousselin for your contributions

When?

Learning Disability Week, observed annually during the third week of June, seeks to spread awareness, and deepen understanding of the complexities surrounding learning disabilities.

The theme for 2024, "Do you see me?" emphasises the importance of visibility, voice, and value for all persons. This theme underscores the critical need for inclusivity, ensuring that all individuals feel welcomed and respected, irrespective of their backgrounds. Employers should celebrate and recognise the unique contributions that individuals with learning disabilities bring, enriching our workplaces and enhancing collective progress.

HISTORY OF LEARNING DISABILITY WEEK

The history of learning disability care and policy in the UK is marked by significant legislative and societal shifts.

·???????? In the mid-19th century, legislation like the 1845 Lunacy Act failed to differentiate between mental illness and learning disabilities, using the broad term "lunatic.”

·???????? The early 20th century saw further development with the formation of the Eugenics Education Society in 1907 and the influential 1913 Mental Deficiency Act, which institutionalised many with learning disabilities.

·???????? The post-war era introduced major changes: the 1944 Education Act labelled some as "ineducable," and the NHS, established in 1948, began integrating hospital services.

·???????? In addition to this, advocacy groups like Mencap emerged, advocating for better care and rights.

·???????? The late 20th century continued the shift toward community care, highlighted by the 1981 Education Act and the closure of long-stay institutions.

·???????? Entering the 21st century, the focus sharpened on rights and inclusion, with the 2001 White Paper "Valuing People" and the 2005 Mental Capacity Act empowering individuals with learning disabilities.

·???????? The exposure of abuse in institutions like Winterbourne View in 2011 underscored ongoing challenges, prompting reports and reforms aimed at ensuring equality and dignity for those with learning disabilities.

Since then, legislation such as the Equality Act 2010 and initiatives such as the learning disabilities week have come into play with the aim of continuing to ensure dignity for those with learning impairments.

?

How has the Equality Act ensured employment law protections for those affected?

Definition of Disability

Firstly, the Equality Act defines a disability as a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on a person's ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. Learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, autism, and ADHD, fall under this definition if they meet the criteria.

Under the Equality Act, employers and organisations have a responsibility to make sure that disabled people can access jobs, education, and services as easily as non-disabled people. This is known as the 'duty to make reasonable adjustments'.

Duty to Make Reasonable Adjustments

This duty includes:

• providing flexible working hours
• flexible return to work policies following illness.
• modifying work performance targets
• providing special equipment or extra assistance to help you in college or work (some of this may be provided by education grants or under the access to work scheme
• providing information in an accessible format such as Braille, Large Print, Easy Read or by using coloured paper
• making a website accessible
• providing ramps for wheelchair access
• providing designated car parking spaces
• providing adapted toilets
• providing lifts to access offices or venues which are not on the ground floor.

…amongst other things.

Positive Action

In addition to this, the Act allows employers to take positive action to support individuals with learning disabilities. This can include targeted recruitment campaigns, training programs, and development opportunities aimed at increasing the representation of people with learning disabilities within the workforce.

By encompassing these protections, the Equality Act 2010 aims to create an inclusive and equitable working environment for individuals with learning disabilities, ensuring they have the same opportunities and are treated with the same respect as other employees.

In light of these topics, what can we consider to be an inclusive and diverse workforce?

An inclusive and diverse workforce focuses on:

·???????? Education and Awareness: Regularly educate all employees about learning disabilities to reduce stigma and build an informed and compassionate workforce.

·???????? Inclusive Hiring Practices: Implement recruitment strategies that actively seek candidates with learning disabilities. Use inclusive job descriptions and provide necessary accommodations during the hiring process.

·???????? Accessibility: Ensure the physical and digital workplace is accessible. This includes ergonomic workstations, accessible restrooms, and software that supports diverse needs.

·???????? Leadership Commitment: Secure commitment from leadership to champion diversity and inclusion initiatives. Leaders should model inclusive behaviour and hold the organization accountable for progress.

How to Get Involved in Learning Disability Week:

If you are interested in participating, here are several impactful ways you can contribute:

·???????? Celebrate Achievements: Highlight and celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of people with learning disabilities within your workplace.

·???????? Spread Awareness on social media: Download and share our resources to raise awareness of Learning Disability Week across your social media platforms. This can be done through company LinkedIn pages or your own personal platforms.

·???????? Donate to Mencap: Support our ongoing campaigns aimed at ensuring that individuals with learning disabilities can lead happy and healthy lives.

?

Participating in Learning Disability Week helps ensure that individuals with learning disabilities are seen, heard, and supported. Our participation, as a workforce, can profoundly impact their lives while driving societal progress through the celebration of diversity and the promotion of empathy. Together, we can make a difference. Join in today!

For legal advice relating to disability discrimination please contact [email protected]

?