Response to the Green Paper on Adult Social Care
‘Independence, Well-Being and Choice’

The following response reflects the views returned to us at the National Learning Disability & Ethnicity Network: It is an information/good practice-sharing network.

We asked members if there was an outcome of social care that they would like to expand upon
Within ‘personal dignity’ there should be an acceptance of difference based on culture or ‘race’. This would lead towards the eradication of inequality currently experienced. Several respondents emphasised understanding of belief systems and that further options regarding social care should be developed that allowed people to live within their belief systems.

Direct Payments were mentioned as area that needed more explanation for BME communities and which would help in their choice of appropriate cultural support. Health was raised as an area where proper access to service needs further development.

We asked how people from minority communities could be made aware of and included in self-assessment
The key point raised was making sure people received information in a format that they understood and that they were supported by interpreters with knowledge of self-assessment. Everyone emphasised the high level of support communities might need to fully benefit from the process. Any assessment should take full account of ethnicity and culture. Meetings and discussions were felt to be more effective than just written information.

We asked how people from BME communities make the most of opportunities presented in individual budgets
There was a significant view that services need to change and become more culturally responsive if the personal plans and aspirations of people from BME communities are to be met. Direct Payments should enable people to arrange support appropriate to their culture. It was felt meetings and consultations needed to be open and transparent so everyone understood their rights and what was being proposed. Advocates and befrienders will need to be briefed about new opportunities. Family carers would need a great deal of support to understand and help their family members utilise direct payments. Planning should be put in place so that minority communities are given sufficient support.

We asked what help do Local Authorities and other social care providers need to work with people who use services and their family carers at making services better
People responded by saying that Local Authorities need to be more flexible. Staff should have a full understanding and empathy with people from minority communities. Person Centred Planning training should include elements about ethnicity, with sufficient resources.

Local Authorities need to determine what services minority communities prefer to receive and adapt accordingly. The voluntary sector does meaningful work with minority communities and Local Authorities should work more closely with these. Some respondents gave actual examples such as needing help to find culturally appropriate clothes for people with high support needs.

Another mentioned help with housing needs such as a floor with large holes in the lino so movement was hampered. Clear indications of where to go for help with these real problems would greatly improve people’s experience of life. Direct consultation was the key message.