Mel Stride has launched a new Disability Action Plan as part of the government’s long-term plan to help disabled people including across Central Devon fulfil their potential and ensure nothing holds them back.
Measures include building an online information hub for local authorities on opening accessible playgrounds, creating a new fund to support disabled people who want to be elected to public office, improving support for people with assistance dogs, and leading new research into emerging issues affecting disabled people in the UK over the next 20 years.
Mr Stride, said: “Everyone in Central Devon deserves to lead a happy and fulfilling life, regardless of additional mental or physical needs.
“My department has a very strong track record of supporting disabled people and with ourDisability Action Plan we are setting out 32 practical and important steps to transform everyday lives so that disabled people can participate fully in society.
“I am also continuing to expand employment support for people with disabilities through programmes including the £2.5 billion Back to Work Plan, which includes reforms to help those with disabilities and health conditions. As well as this, we are also changing the Work Capability Assessment to reflect the modern world of work and the opportunities available to disabled people.
“These measures will help to remove barriers facing disabled people and ensure that everyone can fulfil their potential.”
Mr Stride has also announced that The Cabinet Office’s Disability Unit will also be working with other government departments to explore bidding to host and deliver the 2031 Special Olympics World Summer Games.
