Andrew Mitchell MP has visited one of Midland Heart’s supported housing schemes in Sutton Coldfield which provides housing and care for adults with learning difficulties and complex needs in Boldmere. The Scheme, based in Boldmere Drive, is an example of the care and support services Midland Heart offers in Sutton Coldfield. Andrew Mitchell arranged to visit one of Midland Heart’s Schemes following a meeting with Ruth Cooke the new Chief Executive of the housing and regeneration group. Mr Mitchell was impressed with the Scheme particularly as the Government is currently looking at ways to drive up standards across health and care for people with learning difficulties. The Government published a Green Paper in March 2011, Support and Aspiration: A new approach to special education needs and disability—a Consultation. The Department for Education has recently produced a report responding to the consultation, setting out the progress the Government has already made and the next steps in taking forward these plans. Andrew Mitchell MP said, “I arranged to visit this Scheme in Boldmere to see firsthand the service Midland Heart provides for my constituents. The Coalition Government is taking steps to ensure that people with learning difficulties are always treated with dignity and respect and are able to access the support they deserve.” “The Boldmere Drive Scheme is an excellent example of local access to appropriate care and support and I will use this as a good example when I get the opportunity to feedback to my Cabinet colleagues.” For more information on the Green Paper and report go to: http://www.education.gov.uk/childrenandyoungpeople/sen/a0075339/sengreenpaper Photo: Scheme Manager Karen Chant, a resident of the Scheme, Andrew Mitchell MP and Director of Development Carl Larter.