We have recently learnt that the Learning Disabilities, Autism and Neurodivergence Bill (LDAN) has been shelved by Scottish Parliament. We are now formulating our response, which will include co-ordinating with other organisations. There is already a petition circulating which may be of interest.
Maree Todd MSP, Minister for Mental Wellbeing, Public Health, Sport, Alcohol and Drugs writes the official announcement, reproduced here in its entirety:
I am writing to update the Committee on the future of the proposed Learning Disabilities, Autism
and Neurodivergence (LDAN) Bill.
As set out in the Programme for Government, Ministers remain strongly committed to improving
outcomes for people with learning disabilities, autistic people and neurodivergent people through a
programme of reform, service improvement and investment.
While legislation can be an important tool for driving change, Ministers have concluded that
progress is needed now through policy reform, service improvement and targeted investment,
rather than a legislative process which would take several years to complete and implement. Our
focus is therefore on delivering practical improvements now, while retaining the option of future
legislation should evidence show that additional statutory measures are required.
As set out in the Programme for Government and through other commitments, work is already
underway in a number of key areas, including:
- improving neurodevelopmental support so people can access the right support at the right
time;- expanding Learning Disability Annual Health Checks;
- delivering the Coming Home Action Plan;
- increasing the availability of Changing Places Toilets; and continuing improvement work
across health, education and wider public services.
The significant evidence, engagement and lived experience gathered through development of the
LDAN Bill has already informed Government thinking and will continue to shape future policy and
delivery.
I would also like to recognise the Committee’s significant contribution to this agenda over recent
years, including its March 2026 inquiry into Neurodivergence in Scotland. The evidence gathered
through that inquiry has helped highlight the barriers, inequalities and challenges experienced by
neurodivergent people across Scotland, as well as the need for improved support and greater
accountability. Alongside the evidence gathered through development of the LDAN Bill, the
Committee’s work has informed the Scottish Government’s understanding of where change is
needed and continues to shape the reforms and improvement activity being taken forward.
Importantly, the option of future legislation remains open. Ministers recognise that legislation can
play an important role in driving accountability and securing lasting change. We will continue to
review the impact of the reforms and improvements being taken forward and will keep the case for
future legislation under consideration if further statutory measures are required to achieve the
outcomes that people expect and deserve.
Thank you for the Committee’s continued interest in equality, human rights and neurodivergence
issues.
The Scottish ADHD Coalition brings together voluntary organisations providing support to adults and children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and their parents, carers and families. You can sign up to our mailing list here, read our FAQs, or find your nearest support group.