Children With A Learning Disability Banned From UK School Games

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
askmencap.info


mencap.uk