Drawing from my personal experience working with individuals with learning disabilities, I have seen firsthand how these individuals are often overlooked when it comes to their healthcare rights, specifically during hospital visits or stays. It is heartbreaking to observe that most hospitals lack the essential facilities tailored to the needs of people with learning disabilities.

Our healthcare system purports to serve all, but it often falls short in the case of people with learning disabilities. Hospitals are seen as places of healing, care, and safety. Yet, for many with learning disabilities, they can be places of confusion, frustration, and, worst of all, neglect. Not only do the physical spaces themselves often fail to accommodate these individuals, but there is a prevalent lack of understanding and knowledge among many healthcare professionals about how to best serve those with learning and behavioural challenges.

The World Health Organization states that people with disabilities experience health disparities and barriers to healthcare services (WHO, 2021). Let us no longer ignore this pressing issue. Let's advocate for hospitals to gain more knowledge and to improve facilities for people with learning disabilities, mental health problems, and challenging behaviours. Not as a matter of charity, but as a fundamental matter of human rights.

Let's urge policymakers, healthcare providers, and the broader society to uphold the dignity and respect every person deserves. Please sign this petition so that we can start affecting this necessary change together.