Disabled People: Independent Living

Baroness Thornton Excerpts

Tuesday 22nd June 2010 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Northover]

I could not agree more, from personal experience. It is extremely important that the right information is available. Certainly, the previous Government made progress in this regard, and we intend to take this further. It is extremely important that this is looked at from the point of view not of the provider but of the individual. Looking at it from their point of view will help to change the way in which these services are provided.

[Baroness Thornton]

First, I am sure that the whole House will wish to welcome the noble Baroness to her new position. I know how she must be feeling.

The Minister is concerned about individuals, but the recently announced cuts to local government grants will have a direct impact on the Supporting People budget and will make it more difficult for vulnerable people such as the disabled to live independently in their homes. Is the department monitoring this matter? Personal choice is fine but if your local authority has cut that budget, it does not matter what your personal choice is because the money will not be there to support you.