Overview

The Disabled Persons (Independent Living) Bill [HL] aims to ensure disabled individuals have the same choices, freedom, dignity, and opportunities as non-disabled people. It introduces a national strategy for independent living, establishes new rights for disabled persons, and amends several existing Acts to better support independent living.

Description

The bill establishes a national independent living strategy, outlining costs, benefits, resource allocation, and workforce development. Local authorities and NHS bodies have a duty to promote independent living, providing accessible information, advice, and assistance. Disabled persons gain the right to self-directed assessments, individual budgets (direct or indirect payments), and choice over living arrangements. The bill also amends the Children Act 1989, Mental Health Act 1983, and Health and Social Care Act 2008 to align with its principles, ensuring continuity of support when moving between areas. Inspection and enforcement mechanisms are included, with a designated body to investigate complaints and enforce rights.

Key Aspects:

• National Independent Living Strategy
• Duties for Local Authorities and NHS Bodies
• Right to Self-Directed Assessments
• Individual Budgets (Direct & Indirect Payments)
• Choice over Living Arrangements
• Amendments to existing Acts (Children Act 1989, Mental Health Act 1983, Health and Social Care Act 2008)
• Inspection and Enforcement

Government Spending

The bill does not specify exact figures for increased government spending. However, it requires a national economic plan to outline the costs and benefits of implementation, including transitional funding. The bill also aims to utilize consequential savings from other provisions to support its implementation.

Groups Affected

• Disabled Persons: Gain new rights to information, assessment, individual budgets, choice over living arrangements, and protection from exploitation.
• Carers: May receive support and services to enable them to continue caring while also maintaining their own independent living. The bill also aims to prevent undue dependence on carers.
• Local Authorities: Assume new duties to promote independent living, provide services, and manage individual budgets.
• NHS Bodies: Assume new duties to promote independent living, provide associated support services, and cooperate with local authorities.
• Housing Providers: The bill introduces requirements for accessible housing and adaptation.
• Service Providers: May be required to adapt their services to meet the needs of disabled individuals and work in cooperation with local authorities and NHS bodies.

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