Commentary on “A qualitative exploration of the life experiences of adults diagnosed with mild learning disabilities from minority ethnic communities”

Abstract

PurposeThis paper seeks to provide a commentary on the previous paper in this issue “A qualitative exploration of the life experiences of adults diagnosed with mild learning disabilities from minority ethnic communities”.Design/methodology/approachThe commentary outlines the Valuing People White Paper and The Health Care Commission report Tackling the Challenge: Promoting Race Equality in the NHS in England, among others, as they relate to the author's research.FindingsDeveloping cultural knowledge is of fundamental importance in working towards race equality in mental health services for children and young people with learning disabilitiesOriginality/valueCultural competence refers to the ability to work effectively with individuals from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds, or in settings where several cultures co‐exist. It includes the ability to understand the language, culture and behaviours of other individuals and groups, and to make appropriate recommendations.