Human rights belong to everyone. However, people with a learning disability are at increased risk of having their human rights overlooked, disrespected or unmet.
Human rights are fundamental to safeguarding our dignity and autonomy. Human rights underpin and ensure access to education, healthcare, employment, and community participation.
A rights-based approach empowers individuals with learning disabilities to make informed choices, have control over their lives, and contribute fully to society. Upholding these principles is not only a legal obligation but a moral imperative for creating a fair and equitable Scotland. Embedding human rights in practice is essential to eliminate discrimination and promote inclusion.
On this page we have collated a range of materials that will help you to learn about human rights, with a particular focus on people with learning disabilities. We have also included signposts to resources with a broader focus to support your learning further.
Access this short video from the Scottish Human Rights Commission which explores human rights in the context of services for people with learning disabilities:
The Scottish Human Rights Commission describes a human rights-based approach as “making sure people's rights are put at the very centre of policies and practices”. To understand the links between this statement and practice, access this Scottish Human Rights Commission video:
The Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000 provides a framework for safeguarding the welfare and managing the finances of people aged 16 or over who may lack capacity to make decisions about these matters as a result of mental illness, learning disability, dementia or a related condition, or an inability to communicate (Scottish Government 2000).
NHS Education for Scotland has developed a range of learning resources about the Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000 and its key principles. Applying these principles in practice supports human rights and can make a meaningful difference to peoples’ lives. Explore the learning resources here:
A video is available that describes how the Essentials of Learning Disability resources help to promote and ensure the human rights of people with a learning disability. It briefly introduces the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. You can access it on this page:
Essentials of Learning Disability | Turas | Learn
A collection of learning resources, including an eLearning module, is available here: