Supporting the #LBBill

I’ve just sent the following letter to my MP. If you feel you can support the campaign, please consider doing similarly. The information you need is here and you can use the WriteToThem website.

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I don’t know whether you’ve ever heard of Connor Sparrowhawk, also known as Laughing Boy. He had autism and epilepsy, and while held in an NHS assessment centre for people with learning difficulties for 107 days, he drowned in the bath.

This is something that simply shouldn’t happen to someone with his diagnosis in a caring environment. It has a particular resonance for me, I have an ASD diagnosis myself, and my sister, who had epilepsy, drowned in her bath. She was independent, and while bathing unsupported was her decision, it wasn’t Connor’s. (I have written previously on this: you can read it here. )

Accordingly I support the #JusticeforLB campign and I’d like you to support a Private Members Bill drafted by the campaign. Supporters of the campaign have come together to draft a Bill which would promote and protect disabled people’s right to live in the community with choices equal to others and the support they need. It has become known as ‘LB Bill’ in Connor’s memory.

You might like to know that the Bill is on its second draft and has had feedback from hundreds of disabled people, family members and allies. The Bill has mass support, as you can see on the campaign website. It builds on existing legislation, including the Care Act 2014.

Please support this Bill and encourage your colleagues to do the same. I don’t know whether you are already committed to sponsoring a bill in the Private Members Bill ballot, if not, please consider this one. If you could reply (email address is included) to let me know your position that would be great. It takes two minutes to pledge your support and you can do that here:

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I know I have readers with vulnerable children who will be considering their future in the care system. I know I have readers who care deeply about social justice. If for any reason my words have moved you, please lend your support to this campaign. Either write to your MP or tweet them, or share this post or the campaign blog.

Thank you.