CEREDIGION MP Ben Lake is backing ‘Listen To Us’ - an ambitious new mental health campaign by the learning disability charity Mencap.

New research by the charity reveals that people with a learning disability in the UK are facing a mental health crisis in the wake of the pandemic, with 88 per cent of families and carers surveyed saying their loved one was always or very often felt sad.

In addition, 82 per cent felt lonely due to rarely being able to leave their homes.

At a parliamentary reception held yesterday in Westminster, MPs heard how people with a learning disability were disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, and how they continue to face barriers in reconnecting with their communities.

“Meeting and hearing stories from people with a learning disability and their families about their experiences during the pandemic shows the reality behind the shocking statistics we’ve seen around the impact of loneliness and isolation,” said Mr Lake.

“I’m supporting Mencap’s ‘Listen To Us’ campaign to ensure we can combat loneliness through preventative measures such as community services and activities, alongside better support aimed at treating and managing poor mental health for people with a learning disability.”