'Talking to Top People': Some Issues Relating to the Citizenship of People with Learning Difficulties

The author discusses the citizenship of people with learning difficulties (mental handicap). Whilst there is evidence that people with learning difficulties can develop the skills required of 'active citizens', there are many socio-structural and ideological barriers to the exercise of full citizenship rights by people with learning difficulties. In addition, the citizenship claims of other groups, particularly women, are likely to be in conflict with the citizenship claims of people with learning difficulties. These issues are discussed. Finally some suggestions are made for policy changes which can promote the citizenship of people with learning difficulties.