News Release, 26 August 2005
While the Government’s plan, Valuing People says that person-centred planning can impact positively upon the lives of people with learning disabilities, no research until now, has investigated its real effects. According to a new report released today by the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities and Lancaster University, person-centred planning leads to improved life experiences for individuals.
The Impact of Person-Centred Planning reveals that for people with learning disabilities life can be radically improved with a plan. Individuals lead busier and more varied lives, and are able to expand their social networks, have more contact with friends and become involved in community activities. The process of person-centred planning may also facilitate the identification of health needs that normally go unnoticed.
However, the research found inequalities in provision – for example, individuals with mental health, emotional or behavioural problems were less likely to have a plan. People were more likely to get a plan if they already had a keyworker or care manager, or lived near to their family. For those in supported accommodation, the probability of getting a plan was increased if staff turnover was low, and if good internal planning systems were already in place.
The report calls for the development of policy to ensure that as many people as possible gain access to the benefits associated with person-centred planning.
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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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