News Release, 24 November 2005
On Thursday 8 December, the Scottish Parliament will play host to the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities, which is launching a DVD documentary to help young people with learning disabilities. Young people with learning disabilities frequently experience emotional problems such as depression and anxiety, yet are not given adequate help or support.
The What’s Happening? documentary features the diaries of three young people with learning disabilities who have developed emotional difficulties, with the aim to help similar young people manage their problems.
Myles MacInnes, AKA Mylo, who recently shot to fame with his debut album Destroy Roll & Roll says of his involvement;
“I was really keen to be part of this …… growing up is hard … and my brother has got very mild learning difficulties. He’s just 21 and he’s had a tough time. He went to Glasgow … to go to nautical college but after two or three years the council decided it was too expensive to keep him there with a full-time carer, so he’s back [at home] trying to figure out his next move. I’ve been worried about him [and] my mum because…it’s a full-time thing for her looking after him and … what he needs is some support from outside the family to enable him to get the most out of his life.”
A multi media training pack will also be launched on the day. This is aimed at helping learning disability staff and family carers understand the mental health needs of young people with profound and multiple learning disabilities.
Hazel Morgan, Co-Director of the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities says; “Young people with learning disabilities are more likely to develop mental health problems and services need to change in order to help them. We hope that this opportunity to raise awareness amongst key policy makers at the Scottish Parliament will result in the development of some effective services for this vulnerable group of young people.”
For more information about the work of the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities, please visit www.learningdisabilities.org.uk or telephone 020 7803 1100.
Ends
Return to news releases 2005
Note to editors
For further information and interview requests contact please contact the press office on 020 7803 1105 / 1128 or email the press office
The Foundation promotes the rights, quality of life and opportunities of people with learning disabilities and their families. We do this by working with people with learning disabilities, their families and those who support them to:
- Do research and develop projects that promote social inclusion and citizenship
- Support local communities and services to include people with learning disabilities
- Make practical improvements in services for people with learning disabilities
- Spread knowledge and information.
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