Written question WQ83805

We have provided significant funding to health and social care partners to respond to the impacts of covid and to support recovery.

We fund a range of projects and initiatives that support disabled people, through the Integrated Care Fund and grants to third sector organisations.

The First Minister has also agreed to establish a Minister-led Taskforce to take forward work to address the inequalities highlighted by the ‘Locked Out: Liberating disabled people’s lives and rights in Wales beyond COVID-19’ report and to oversee the implementation of actions in conjunction with our partners across the public, private and voluntary sectors.

Guidance has also been provided to local authorities for the reopening of day services in a planned and phased approach. An allocation of £3million has also been provided to local authorities to help support respite services for unpaid carers and provide short breaks as lockdown restrictions were eased.

Throughout the pandemic we have ensured the needs of people with a learning disability are recognised in the planning and delivery of services. This includes approaches to shielding, vaccinations, social distancing and care home/supported housing. Guidance and advice has been provided in accessible, Easy-Read formats and co-produced with representative groups. As we emerge from the crisis, Welsh Government is working with the Learning Disability Ministerial Advisory Group and key stakeholders on the development of a Learning Disability Action Plan that sets out key priorities and deliverables for the current term of government.