Neurodivergent Conditions Bill - Template Support Letter
Matt Hancock stepped down as MP, when the new Labour government came into power, meaning his Neurodivergent Conditions (Screening and Teacher Training) Bill is no longer progressing through Parliament.
This crucial bill now needs a new champion, and we would greatly appreciate your help in raising awareness among new and returning Members of Parliament.
If you supported the Bill, and are keen to see this proposed again by Labour, you can use the template letter below, to help write to your local MP, to highlight the importance of supporting neurodivergent individuals in their constituencies and across the country.
Where possible, if you have the time, please try to personalise this letter, emphasising why this matters to you, as we are aware that sometimes MPs don’t respond to ‘copy and paste’ emails.
Dear [MP’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well.
As one of your constituents, I am writing to urge you to consider proposing the Neurodivergent Conditions (Screening and Teacher Training) Bill as your own Private Member's Bill. This crucial Bill, originally introduced by Matt Hancock, aimed to ensure that every neurodivergent child is identified in primary school and receives the support they need and deserve to thrive at school and in later life.
The original Neurodivergent Conditions Bill had already gathered cross-party support and sought to introduce neurodivergent screening in all primary schools. An essential point to note is that, as opposed to just screening for one condition, this Bill seeks to ensure all neurodivergent conditions are screened for. As neurodivergent conditions commonly co-occur, this comprehensive approach is vital. Whether a child is showing traits commonly associated with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, dyscalculia, or any other neurodivergent condition, the passing of this Bill will ensure complete learner profiles are understood and children properly supported.
Presently, only 1 in 5 children leave school with their dyslexia identified. Furthermore, current socio-economic statistics show that children in the upper classes of society are twice as likely to have their dyslexia identified by age 16 as those in the working classes. Shockingly, children with identified Special Educational Needs (SEN) account for almost half (46.7 percent) of all permanent exclusions from school, while a government report found that more than four in ten (42 percent) UK prisoners had been permanently excluded from school. Support and screening should be available to all children, regardless of class. This Bill looks to change these concerning statistics, and your support in proposing it will enable all children to learn and reach their potential.
I urge you to propose this Bill on behalf of all neurodivergent people in your constituency and ensure that it progresses through Parliament successfully.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to receiving your response.
Kind regards,
[Name and Postcode]