The States has set itself the target of improving the lives of thousands of people with learning disabilities by the end of 2027.

The Adult Disability Service has created a new list of actions to support people, based on feedback and 68 suggestions from the community. 

It is aiming to improve the health, education, employment, housing and knowledge of learning disabled people and those that support them within three years.

To that end a special board has been created which brings together those living with disabilities, professional staff and support networks in the third sector. 

The States estimates that there are 1,200 adults and 250 children with a learning disability in the Bailiwick – many of whom live independently with family and friend support. 

The strategy has been drawn up to focus efforts in improving services and lives.

Sian Ogier, Associate Director, Specialist Mental Health and Adult Disability Services, said the needs of people with additional needs has been misunderstood in the past.

“People with a learning disability can achieve an excellent quality of life with the right opportunities and support. However, a lack of understanding of their needs is a significant barrier to this,” she said.

“We are delighted to have received feedback from people with a learning disability and their relatives to create a holistic framework that sets out the vision for improving opportunities that people in the Bailiwick have.” 

The strategy will be assessed and refreshed at the end of 2027.