Supporting people with disabilities to lead healthy, independent lives is crucial – not just for disabled people but society as a whole.
As Care Minister, I’ve been leading work on the Government’s new National Disability Strategy, which will help make everyday life better for disabled people - from housing and work, to schools and opportunities for young people.
The strategy includes building more supported housing and adapting existing homes using the £573 million Disabled Facilities Grant to make changes like widening doors, installing ramps, fitting stair lifts, or installing a downstairs bathroom.
It also includes an extra £300 million of investment to support children with special educational needs and disabilities in schools.
My experiences of supporting disabled people in Faversham and Mid Kent are helping to shape my work as one of the Government’s Disability Champions.
I recently supported local campaigners in getting the accessible swing put back in Graveney Village Hall play area. I know having accessible play equipment is really important for disabled children and their families.
I’m pleased that our new strategy includes a commitment to making playgrounds more accessible so that more disabled children can use them.
This strategy is an important step in levelling up opportunities for disabled people across the country, including here in Faversham and Mid Kent.
