WEST Devon and Torridge MP John Burnett met learning disabled adults from the town's Gateway Club over coffee last weekend to mark the publication of the first White Paper of learning disability for 30 years.
The White Paper covers issues such as health, housing and social services for people with learning disabilities. Mencap, the UK disability charity, will endeavour to implement the proposals across Devon.
Mr Burnett said: 'This is a very exciting time for people with a learning disability in Tavistock and West Devon. We need to make sure they get the services and support they need to live a full life within their community.'
Mencap officer for Devon Tina Feather said: 'The strategy highlights people's rights and puts them in the centre for planning. Its focus is on choice, opportunities, independence and respect.'
The Deputy Chief Constable for Devon and Cornwall, Keith Portlock, who is chair of the Mencap Committee for Devon, said: 'We hope that over the coming months we can work together, along with the local authorities, to improve services and make a real difference to people with a learning disability in West Devon.'