ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the relevance of memory work in the lives of men and women who have a history of being excluded from mainstream society and discriminated against in terms of the opportunities available to them. It begins with an overview of the history of learning disabilities in the United Kingdom, and goes on to explore the effects of changes in attitudes that have come through the closing of large institutions and the introduction of the concept of normalisation and social role valorisation. The chapter focuses on how exploring the past presents a useful approach to facilitating integration through promoting communication about, and valuing the experiences of, people with learning disabilities. Many people with learning disabilities find it difficult to express opinions. This is partly due to being afraid of giving a ‘wrong’ answer-a fear that may have come about through experiences at school where great value was placed on knowing the one correct answer.
