Learning Disabilities in the UK in Cornwall in Devon in Dorset in Essex in Greater Manchester in North Yorkshire in Oxfordshire in Somerset

All people with a learning disability have an equal right to healthcare. All healthcare professionals have a duty to make reasonable adjustments to the treatment they provide to people with a learning disability. All healthcare professionals should provide a  high standard of care and treatment and value the lives of people with a learning disability.

By signing this charter, we pledge to:

• Make sure that hospital passports are available and used
• make sure that all our staff understand and apply the principles of mental capacity laws
• appoint a learning disability liaison nurse in our hospital(s)
• make sure every eligible person with a learning disability can have an annual health check
• provide ongoing learning disability awareness training for all staff
• listen to, respect and involve families and carers
• Provide practical support and information to families and carers
• provide information that is accessible for people with a learning disability
• display the ‘Getting it right’ principles for everyone to see

For guidance on implementing this pledge, please see: www.mencap.org.uk/gettingitright

Aspergers

- Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC)

In November 2009 the Government passed the Autism Act covering all people with an Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC), including people with Aspergers Syndrome.

The first ever strategy for improving the lives of adults with autism in England was published on 3 March 2010.

The Autism Act 2009 committed the Government to publishing an adult autism strategy to transform services for adults with autism. The publication of this strategy meets this commitment.

The strategy sets out a number of key actions and recommendations for central Government as well as for local authorities, the NHS and Jobcentre Plus, focusing on five key areas:

• increasing awareness and understanding of autism
• developing a clear and consistent pathway for diagnosis
• improving access to the services and support people need to live independently within the community
• employment
• enabling local partners to develop relevant services to meet identified needs and priorities.

On 2 April 2010 the government produced the first year delivery plan, entitled Towards 'Fulfilling and rewarding lives': The first year delivery plan for adults with autism in England. This sets out the governance structure and the actions, with timescales and responsibilities, that will be taken in the first year to support the implementation of 'Fulfilling and rewarding lives': The strategy for adults with autism in England (2010). Read the delivery plan here.