This written evidence has been prepared by the Law Society's Mental Health and Disability Committee. The Committee is made up of senior and specialist lawyers who practise in the fields of disability discrimination, mental health, mental capacity and community care both for claimants and respondents and members from other professions.
The Society welcomes the vast majority of provisions contained in the draft Care and Support Bill. The bill is a significant step towards simplifying what is currently complex and inaccessible legislation.
The clear priority of legislative reform must be better outcomes for vulnerable individuals. For this to be achieved the bill must provide greater clarity, about accountability and responsibility for providing care and support. Legislation alone will not provide effective care, support and safeguarding regimes. A change in culture, to focus on the needs of the patient as an individual is essential.