Our Collective Letter to Maree Todd MSP on the LDAN Bill

Following discussions last month with partner charities and a dozen MSPs, we have written collectively to Maree Todd MSP on the Scottish Government’s decision to drop the Learning Disabilities, Autism and Neurodivergence Bill.

September’s roundtable sought to keep the aims and good intentions of the Bill, which enjoyed widespread support in and out of Parliament, alive. As a collective, we reflected on the setbacks of this month, whilst starting to explore how we address critical, unresolved questions around the ongoing and unmet needs of neurodivergent people and families.

Later this week, the Minister will deliver a Ministerial Statement in The Scottish Parliament on neurodivergence and learning disabilities. With the Scottish Government having stated that they will look to deliver action for our communities via non-legislative means, today’s statement presents their first opportunity to ensure that actions match the words.

The Scottish Government should outline which policy initiatives it will take to meet each area of need, what their overall vision is, and the wider strategic approach it intends to take in respect of neurodivergence and learning disability. We are keen also to see a long-term, sustainable commitment to address these needs in the forthcoming budget.

Read our letter below.