How we work

At the 2nd Board meeting on December 8th 2005 the "Guiding Principles for Working Groups" were agreed: These are:

^{We
support the principles that are clearly set out in "The Same As
You". It said
that people with learning disabilities should be:}

	Valued
	Treated as individuals
	Asked what they need
	Involved in making choices about the things that affect their lives
	Given help and support to do what they want to do
	Able to use local services like everyone else
	Able to get specialist services when they need them
	Able to have services that take account of age, abilities and needs

^{2.
Working together}

	We want to work in partnership with all everyone involved.
	We believe that involving people improves services and helps good planning
	All the partners need to learn about each other.
	Help should be provided where it is needed so that people can learn new things. Some people will need more support than others.
	The review should be guided by the views of people who use services and their families
	Consultation must reach everyone affected including people who are often left out.
	We should listen to what people tell us.

^{3.
Respecting Other People}

	We should look at equality in all parts of the review.
	Always show respect for people who have different views and ideas.
	Be open to new and different ways of working.
	Always keep the person at the centre
	Individuals have the right to be valued for their ethnic background, language, culture and faith
	Services should recognise, reflect and respond to all groups in our communities and their specific needs
	People have the right to be treated equally and receive a service that is free from bullying, harassment and discrimination