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9 in 10 People With Learning Disabilities Face Bullying Every Day

With 1.5 million people living with learning disabilities in the UK, it is shocking that 9 in 10 feel that bullying is a daily problem.
Health, Lifestyle - 26 May 2011   Download IconContent available for download:  
Audio | Interview with Lucy Hurst-Brown| Login to Download

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A recent poll amongst the 1.5 million people living with learning disabilities in the UK has revealed the scary extent to which they feel oppressed and actively discriminated against by wider society. With 90% citing bullying as a problem they have to deal with on a daily basis it is no surprise loneliness was stated as their biggest fear.

The daily struggles for such people do not stop there as gaining employment, moving out and even healthcare proved to instigate significantly more stress when compared with the average population. Less than 1000 of those with learning disabilities are working over 16 hours a week, only 14% rent or own their own home compared with 98% of the general population and shockingly they are four times more likely to die from a preventable illness.

With 200 babies born every week with learning disabilities it seems essential more support is made available for such a large, self proclaimed oppressed group of society. In order to empower and ensure their full citizenship rights and responsibilities, South West based charity The Brandon Trust is attempting to �Make a Mark� with their 5 year Strategy.

. Introduction:

With 1.5 million people living in the UK that suffer learning disabilities it is shocking that 9 in 10 feel bullying is a problem they have to deal with on a day to day basis. On top of this, many report issues such as employment, moving away from home and healthcare as those which are incomparable with wider society. With less than 1000 of those with learning disabilities working over 16 hour weeks, only 14% renting or owning their own home compared with 98% of the general population and four times more at risk of dying from a preventable illness, many are left feeling oppressed and with limited opportunities.

What support is out there for those with learning disabilities to ensure they can live their lives to their full potential without fear or barriers when it comes to acceptance?

Joining us to discuss this further is Lucy Hurst-Brown, Chief Executive of The Brandon Trust.

. Suggested Questions:

What do you believe are the issues for people with learning disabilities living in our area and what can a charity like Brandon Trust do to support these people?

Why is bullying such a problem for those with learning disabilities?

Why is loneliness such a big fear?

What can be done to change social attitudes towards those with learning disabilities?

What is the Brandon Trust �Make a Mark� 5 year Strategy?

Where can our listeners go to find out more information?