Children With A Learning Disability Banned From UK School Games

Main Category: Pediatrics / Children's Health
Also Included In: ADHD;  Autism;  Psychology / Psychiatry
Article Date: 24 Aug 2007 - 1:00 PST

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Over 300,000 children with a learning disability are not allowed to compete in the UK School Games, due to take place in Coventry from 23 - 26 August.

Elite athletes with a learning disability are currently excluded from the Paralympic Games and this has caused an unjust knock-on effect, preventing school children with a learning disability taking part in the UK School Games.

The UK School Games were introduced in March 2006, with the intention of bringing together the most talented young sports people across the UK to compete in an environment designed to replicate the feel of major events such as the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games.

Dame Jo Williams, Chief Executive, Mencap, said: "It is inexcusable that children with a learning disability are being discriminated against because of the Paralympic ruling for adults. We are actively seeking the removal of the ban on athletes with a learning disability from the Paralympics and we are optimistic the ban will be lifted after Beijing 2008.

"We strongly urge the government to find a solution, so that children with a learning disability have the chance to compete in next year's UK School Games."

Philippa Russell, DRC Commissioner, said: "It is totally unacceptable that over 300,000 young people with a learning disability are excluded from the UK School Games.

"My adult son with a learning disability benefited hugely from a range of inclusive sport programmes when he was a student. I want this generation of young people with learning disabilities to have the same opportunity."

-- Mencap works with people with a learning disability and their families and carers.

-- 1.5 million people in the UK have a learning disability.

-- Learning disability affects someone's intellectual and social development all their life.

-- It is not mental illness. It is not dyslexia.

-- It used to be called mental handicap but we don't use this term anymore because most people with a learning disability find it offensive.

-- People with a learning disability don't get an equal chance in life. That's why we fight to change laws and services, and directly support thousands of people to live their lives the way they want.

-- For information about learning disability issues pleasevisit http://www.askmencap.info

http://www.mencap.org.uk