Overview

The Health and Social Care (Independent Living) Bill aims to improve the lives of disabled people in the UK by giving them more control over their care and support, promoting independent living, and ensuring equal opportunities. The bill introduces a range of new rights and duties for local authorities, NHS bodies, and other relevant organisations.

Description

This bill establishes a legal right to independent living for disabled people. Key aspects include:

Duties of Local Authorities and NHS Bodies:

• Promote independent living for disabled persons.
• Secure the availability of a sufficient range of communication support, independent advocacy, practical support, advice, information, residential accommodation, employment opportunities and respite services.
• Maintain a register of disabled persons in their area.
• Enhance the capacity of local organisations providing support to disabled persons.
• Co-operate with each other and relevant partners to achieve these goals.

Rights of Disabled Persons:

• Right to accessible information, advice, and assistance.
• Right to independent advocacy services.
• Right to a self-directed assessment of their needs.
• Right to an individual budget, either as a direct payment or managed indirectly.
• Right to determine their living arrangements, including choosing their accommodation.
• Protection from charges for independent living support, except for reasonable contributions towards board and lodging in residential care (under certain conditions).

Amendments to Existing Legislation:

The bill amends several existing Acts, including the Children Act 1989, the Mental Health Act 1983, the Health and Social Care Act 2008, and various housing and planning Acts, to better support disabled people and their families.

Inspection and Enforcement:

The bill provides for inspection of arrangements made under the Act and designates a public body to investigate complaints and enforce compliance.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify exact figures for government spending. However, it requires the creation of a national independent living implementation plan, including a national economic plan that sets out the costs and benefits of implementation, and commits to the provision of funding as required. The bill also aims to utilize consequential savings from other provisions to support its implementation.

Groups Affected

• Disabled people: The bill grants them new rights and increased control over their care and support.
• Carers: The bill aims to improve their wellbeing and reduce their burden of care.
• Local authorities: They will have new duties and responsibilities.
• NHS bodies: They will have new duties and responsibilities.
• Housing providers: The bill introduces amendments relating to housing provision for disabled people.
• Organisations providing independent living services: They may see increased demand for their services.

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