News Release, 17 January 2007
Following today’s publication of the Healthcare Commission’s investigation into services for people with learning disabilities provided by Sutton and Merton Primary Care Trust, Barbara McIntosh from the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities claims that poor quality support and care is widespread across the country:
“While we back the PCT for inviting the review, we are disappointed that it has taken another high profile national investigation to instigate change within learning disability services. It is wrong that institutionalised neglect has been allowed to take place for so long and we know that problems like these are not unique to Sutton and Merton.
“Low staff morale, isolation of the service, and lack of training means that staff are often ill-equipped to support and care for people with learning disabilities. These issues, combined with financial cuts to services are having a detrimental effect on the quality of life of people with learning disabilities across the country. The priority must be to train managers to help staff develop the necessary skills and values. Only through major investment will these changes take place.”
Orchard Hill Hospital, which was investigated by the Healthcare Commission, will now close and the NHS faces losing responsibility for learning disability services. Alison Giraud-Saunders, Co-Director of the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities, welcomes the closure of the hospital but says that no NHS involvement could make matters worse:
“We know that people who live in smaller, more homely environments often receive a better quality of care than those who live in larger, institutional settings. However, it is important the NHS remains involved in the care of people with learning disabilities. Without this, there will be significant problems in providing good healthcare to people with learning disabilities, many of whom are living longer and increasing numbers with complex health needs.”
Ends
Note to editors
For further information please contact the Press Office on 020 7803 1130 / 1128 or email Press Office.
The Foundation promotes the rights, quality of life and opportunities of people with learning disabilities and their families. We do this by working with people with learning disabilities, their families and those who support them to:
- Do research and develop projects that promote social inclusion and citizenship
- Support local communities and services to include people with learning disabilities
- Make practical improvements in services for people with learning disabilities
- Spread knowledge and information.
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