Have your say. Help inform the development of the Down Syndrome Act.

The Government has issued a call for evidence to help inform the development of the statutory guidance accompanying the Down Syndrome Act (opens new window). The call includes a set of housing questions for people with Down's Syndrome, families and carers, and professionals including anyone working in housing. Have your say by Friday, 8 November 2022.

The Act, which received Royal Assent in April 2022, aims to improve access to services and life outcomes for people with Down's syndrome. The Act requires government to develop and consult on guidance that authorities must have regard to when providing certain health, social care, education and housing services.

With regard to the latter, the consultation paper makes clear everyone has the right to try and live as independently as possible in their own home. It makes specific reference to supported housing and how it can provide homes for a wide range of people including older people, people with a learning disability and autistic people, and people with mental health related needs.

The consultation includes questions on the following:

• What do people with Down's syndrome need to help them live independently?
   
• Are people with Down's syndrome, their families and carers aware of what support is available in their local area?
   
• Do local councils understand the specialist housing needs in their local areas?

For more information on a range of housing choices for people with a learning disability or autism, the Housing LIN curates these dedicated webpages (opens new window).