Scottish Government publishes findings on learning disability and autism scoping study

The Scottish Government this week published the findings of a scoping study it commissioned following its commitment to undertake a review of the 2003 Mental Health (Care and Treatment) Act.

The review will aim to determine whether the provisions in the Act fulfil the needs of people with learning disabilities and autism.

The study, carried out by Dawn Griesbach Associates and overseen by the Mental Welfare Commission (MWC) and the Scottish Commission for Learning Disability (SCLD), sought to lay the foundations for the review by gathering views from selected key stakeholder groups.

Prior to its original inception, there was considerable debate about the inclusion of learning disability and autism in the Act, and there has been continuing disagreement ever since about whether the needs of people with learning disabilities and autism are being fulfilled.

In her response statement, the Minister for Mental Health, Maureen Watt, welcomed the work undertaken by MWC and SCLD, and thanked all of those who participated in the study.

Mrs Watt said that work to identify a chairperson is now underway, and that ministers are aiming for the review to commence by April 2017.

The MWC and the SCLD today released a joint statement in which both organisations thanked the Scottish Government for the opportunity to carry out the study, along with everybody who contributed to the study.

Colin McKay, chief executive, Mental Welfare Commission, said:

"The Commission welcomes the publication of the study, and looks forward to the review getting underway soon."

Jamie Wilson 0131 313 8782

Note to editors

A copy of the MWC and SCLD joint statement is available here.

The full findings of the study and the Minister of Mental Health's response statement are available on the Scottish Government website.