What is a consultation?
A consultation is when a public body (for example a governmental department or local council) asks for people’s views on their proposals to change their service, policy or legislation on something.
Why are consultations important to Mencap NI?
Consultations are a very important part of the decision-making process.
We want to ensure that the voices of children and adults with a learning disability and their parents/carers and families who would be affected by changes are at the heart of the conversation. We want to ensure that individuals with a learning disability rights are a reality, and that are equally valued and included within the consultation process.
Mencap respond to consultations in various ways, the most regular would be a written response.
Mencap also host focus groups and on occasion will invite the officials who are preparing the consultation to directly listen to feedback.
How can I get involved?
If you would like to become more involved with Mencap NI consultation please contact Stephen Browne, our campaigns and policy officer at stephen.browne@mencap.org.uk.

2018 consultations
Department Finance – Briefing on Northern Ireland Budgetary Outcomes for Northern Ireland 2018-2020
This consultation was to seek opinion on proposed budgetary outcomes for NI for Ministerial Approval. One of the main concerns Mencap NI had was in response to one of the Department for Economy proposals to cut FE Level 1 & 2 programmes.
Take a look at the Mencap NI Response/DOF Consultation PDF.
Northern Health Social Care Trust – Purchasing of Domiciliary Care
NHSCT are reviewing how they commission the provision of Domiciliary Care within the region.
Take a look at the Mencap NI Response/NHSCT Consultation PDF.

Older Mencap NI Consultation Responses
Please see our responses to previous consultations:
- Department for Education - Children and Young People Strategy PDF
- Department for Communities - Fundamental Review of Social Housing PDF
- Equality Commission – Key Statements of Inequalities on Employment PDF
- Mencap NI Response to Draft Programme For Government 2016 PDF
If you would like more information on Mencap NI’s positions, please contact Stephen Browne, our campaigns and policy officer, on stephen.browne@mencap.org.uk