1961: Minister for Health Enoch Powell speech in Westminster signals the policy shift to ‘community care’ in mental health and learning disability.

1963: Industrial Therapy Organisation (ITO) formed at Downshire Hospital becomes the organisation Action mental Health and extends their work across Northern Ireland.

1972: Health and Personal Social Services (NI) Order 1972 comes into law.

1973: Direct Rule begins in Northern Ireland and 26 local councils are established.  

1976: The Mobility Allowance is introduced.  This is a cash benefit to allow people to pay for travel costs.

1978: Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons (NI) Act comes into law.  Gives rights to disabled people in relation to practical assistance in the home, provision of meals and participating in services.

1981: International Year of Disabled Persons - designated by the UN.

1986: Mental Health (NI) - change to mental health legislation - creation of more rights to challenge.

1989: Disabled Persons (NI) Act 1989 creates a specific duty in relation to assessments.

1989: Northern Ireland Council on Disability becomes and independent organisation.