§ Mr. WrayTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what action has been taken since 1997 to help remove barriers to young disabled people achieving an independent social life. [68181]
§ Jacqui SmithThe Government are committed to maximising support to disabled young people so that they have the same chance to succeed and participate in society as their non-disabled peers. As part of the Government's Quality Protects programme we have set national objectives to improve family support and inclusive sport and leisure services for disabled children and young people. We have earmarked £60 million over three years from the children's special grant—£15 million in 2001–02 and 2002–03 and £30 million in 2003–04. The 2001 national overview report of local authority's Quality Protects Management Action Plans shows that councils are improving services by providing more: family support; accessible after-school activities; supported access to leisure facilities; transport to facilities and specialist support workers. Through the Carers and Disabled Children Act 2000, we have introduced direct payments for 16 and 17-year-old disabled young people. This will increase choice, flexibility and access to services of their choice.
§ Mr. WrayTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what assistance he gives to disabled people who are moving into adulthood. [68183]
§ Jacqui SmithIn "Valuing People: A New Strategy for Learning Disability for the 21' Century", issued in 2001, the Government set a national objective to improve transition services for young disabled people as they enter adulthood and in particular to ensure continuity of care and support. We have taken action to improve services in a number of ways
Learning disability partnership boards have been asked to identify a member with lead responsibility for transition issues. Person-centred planning is being introduced for all young people moving from children's to adult's services by 2003.122WThe new Connexions personal advisers will identify disabled young people in their area and will work with the school and other relevant agencies to draw up the transition plans.New guidance on improving multi-agency transition support for young disabled people leaving school has been included in the revised SEN Code of Practice.For disabled young people leaving care, the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000 places a duty on councils to provide young people aged 16 and over in and leaving care with support.