5 July 2006
Dear Sir,
It is disturbing that widespread abuse of people with learning disabilities was allowed to continue for so long in Cornwall (NHS trust staff abused adults with learning disabilities, 5 July). But, it was not just care staff and managers who failed these vulnerable adults.
The Strategic Health Authority in Cornwall did not hold the Primary Care Trusts accountable for weaknesses in the services, and the NHS collectively failed to act on the abuse that was taking place. The Cornwall Partnership NHS Trust has been awarded good star ratings in recent years despite concerns from other organisations that the NHS failed to provide a good model of care. Consequently, proper safeguards fell by the wayside.
NHS services should be regulated in the same way as private and voluntary sector care services - people should receive the same standard of care wherever they live.
Services in Cornwall are determined to improve. The Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities is working with staff in Cornwall to help them improve the lives of people with learning disabilities in their care.
Alison Giraud-Saunders
Co-Director
Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities
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