This paper explores some of the issues and barriers to service user involvement for people with learning disability in mental health settings. In particular the paper focuses on barriers to involvement including staff attitudes and the involvement of service users in their own assessment and treatment. The issue of getting people involved in their own care is addressed and is highlighted using examples of good practice.

The Government's first strategy for learning disabilities in 30 years Valuing People is designed to tackle social exclusion and discrimination (Department of Health (DoH), 2001). It is bold and challenging, but will it work? It is built upon four key principles: civil rights, independence, choice and inclusion.