A Petition Supporting The Disabled Persons (Independent Living) Bill
The Disabled Persons (Independent Living) Bill introduced by Lord Jack Ashley challenges the key problems and barriers to independent living faced by disabled people. This includes anyone of any age who has an impairment, illness, health condition, is recovering from illness or has become frail through old age.
Independent living means that disabled people of all ages have the same freedom, choice, dignity and control as other citizens at home, at work, and in the community. It does not mean living by yourself or fending for yourself. It means rights to practical assistance and support to participate in society and live an ordinary life.
Part 1 of the Bill sets out the principles which must underpin the delivery of independent living by local authorities, health services and their partners, including enabling freedom, choice, control and participation.
Part 2 places a duty on local authorities and NHS bodies to co-operate to promote independent living and improve outcomes for disabled people.
The Bill requires local authorities and NHS to support user-led organisations including Centres for Independent Living.
Each disabled person is entitled to a self-directed and comprehensive assessment and to be informed of the level of resources to be provided to them, with the choice of a cash payment (individual budget), services or a combination of both.
Disabled people will be accorded rights to advocacy or support from a nominated friend. Also rights to portable support - if you move you can retain your individual budget.
In Part 3 disabled people in residential care must have an independent living agreement which sets out how the provider will meet their requirements for choice, control, freedom and dignity.
Part 4 includes a duty on housing authorities to set up a disability housing register to ensure disabled people can choose properties for rent which match their access needs, and stronger duties on local housing authorities to plan for current and future housing needs of all disabled people in their area.
By giving stronger entitlements to practical support the Bill ensures that disabled people will be able to decide where we live, who we live with, and how we live our lives For the first time we move towards equal citizenship.
The Disability Movement supports Lord Ashley's Bill and we ask for your support too by obtaining 5 signatures and returning the printable petition to CILL, 5 Silverdale House, Silverdale, London SE26 4SD. All signatures collected will be sent to Lord Ashley showing Lewisham's support for his Bill.
Thank you.
Trustees of CILL - Lewisham's Centre for Independent Living