<p>Health practitioners who work in the field of learning disabilities are familiar with the many inequalities that exist in the area of healthcare provision and in opportunities for their clients to participate on an equal basis in day- to-day social activities. Many disabled people have been excluded from mainstream education which has reduced their life chances in terms of employment, wealth and leisure (Barnes 1991), and is associated with higher mortality rates (Muller 2002). Health professionals have a duty to keep abreast of legislative changes and disability issues which are likely to impact on the life experiences of their clients.</p>