| In the past people with learning disabilities were never seriously considered for jobs in the local labour market. |
 |
| Employment is now high on the Government’s agenda. |
 |
| The White Paper ‘Valuing People’ recognises the rights of people with learning disabilities to have a paid job or take part in valued work. |
 |
| “Having a job” or “going to work” is valuable in building confidence, self-esteem, building relationships, improving standards of living and giving a good image of the skills of people with learning disabilities. |
 |
| This strategy will set out what we in Kirklees will do to ensure that many more people with learning disabilities can be employed. The employment strategy links direct to person centred planning, the Day Services Modernisation Plan and the Joint Investment Plan for 2001-2004. |
 |