What is the National Trust Act?
The National Trust Act 1999 set up the National Trust for the Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities, now commonly described as intellectual disability. It supports independent living and community inclusion, appoints legal guardians through Local Level Committees, and runs schemes such as Niramaya health insurance and early intervention support.
What this means in practice
The Act is especially important for families planning long-term care, because adults with these disabilities may need a legal guardian to manage property, finances and decisions.
Key functions
- Legal guardianship through district Local Level Committees.
- Health insurance through the Niramaya scheme.
- Day care, respite and residential support schemes.
- Early intervention and training programmes.
- Awareness and support for families.
Who it covers
Persons with autism, cerebral palsy, intellectual disability and multiple disabilities.
Planning for the future
Many parents worry about who will care for their child as an adult. Guardianship under the National Trust Act, together with financial planning, wills and family discussions, helps secure a child's future. Some families set up trusts or name a family member as future guardian. Talking to other parents, NGOs and legal advisers can help families plan step by step. The National Trust's Local Level Committees can explain guardianship procedures in each district.
Practical next steps
- Visit the National Trust's official website.
- Check scheme eligibility.
- Contact the Local Level Committee for guardianship.
- Plan long-term support with family members.
What to keep in mind
Schemes and procedures change; confirm details with the National Trust.
Common follow-up questions
Is the National Trust the same as RPwD?
No. They are separate laws; the National Trust Act focuses on four disability groups and guardianship.
What is Niramaya?
A health insurance scheme under the National Trust for eligible persons.
Sources
- The National Trust for persons with autism, CP, ID and multiple disabilities
- Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities: RPwD Act 2016 and rules
Sources inform the explanation; examples are educational illustrations, not individual clinical advice. How these answers are prepared.