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A woman will have her baby taken away from her because of her learning difficulties - let us know what you think
A mother-to-be whose wedding was halted by social workers who said she was not intelligent enough to marry, has now been told her baby will be taken away.
Kerry Robertson, 17, who has mild learning difficulties, has been told that she will not be allowed to bring up the baby due in January.
Mencap, the charity for people with learning disabilities has spoken out in support of the couple because they say, with the right support, there's no reason why someone with learning disabilities cannot be a good parent.
Stephen Moore, Executive Director, Social Work Service said:
"Much of the work we do is governed by legislation. Complex decisions are made that balance risk and welfare while supporting people at times of personal or family need.
"We cannot discuss details of individual cases for reasons of confidentiality but give assurance that we will always work with people for the best outcome for all involved."
Mencap's chief executive, Mark Goldring said:
"There are around a quarter of a million parents with a learning disability in the UK, all of whom should have the same opportunities as anyone else to be a parent and look after their own children. Yet up to 60 per cent of parents who have a learning disability will at some stage have their children taken away, often because of preconceived ideas that parents with a learning disability are unable to cope.
"With the right support people with a learning disability can be and are excellent parents, yet many fear that asking for help may be seen as an admission of failure which would result in their children being taken away.
"Mencap wants support for parents with a learning disability to be more readily available, as well as learning disability training for local authorities so that decisions about parenting capacity are made on the individual case rather than prejudice."
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