Evolution and devolution: Scottish legislation relevant to people with intellectual disabilities within mental health and forensic services

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the evolution of legislation relevant to people with intellectual disabilities (IDs) since the Scottish Parliament came into being in 1999; this will be particularly relevant to practitioners working with people with IDs within mental health and forensic mental health services.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive review of the relevant legislation, setting this out in the chronological order in which the legislation was enacted.

Findings

The paper demonstrates that legislative reform is a dynamic and evolving process, responsive to social, political and legal agendas.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is limited to a description of the relevant legislation in only one part of the UK (Scotland).

Practical implications

A helpful summary of the relevant legislation is provided which should be of particular value to readers/practitioners from outwith Scotland.

Originality/value

The paper provides an up to date account of the legislative reform in Scotland during the period 1999-2015.

Citation

Douds, F. and Haut, F. (2015), "Evolution and devolution: Scottish legislation relevant to people with intellectual disabilities within mental health and forensic services", Journal of Intellectual Disabilities and Offending Behaviour, Vol. 6 No. 3/4, pp. 127-136. https://doi.org/10.1108/JIDOB-08-2015-0017