DHSC's training plan must involve people with learning disabilities, says DRUK

Mon,4 November 2019
News

DRUK is calling for training for staff working with learning disabled long-term residents of in-patient hospitals to be developed with people with learning disabilities.

The call comes in response to the Department of Health and Social Care’s announcement that the Government will introduce mandatory learning disability training for all health and social care staff, following campaigning from Paula McGowan, mother to Oliver, and the learning disability charity, Mencap.

Health Minister Matt Hancock, also confirmed that all 2,250 people with a learning disability and/or autism in in-patient units will have their care plans reviewed over the next twelve months. An independent panel, chaired by Baroness Sheila Hollins, will also be established to oversee the case reviews of those in long term segregation in in-patient units.

DRUK Deputy Chief Executive Sue Bott said: “I hope today’s announcements will finally bring about tangible progress for the learning disabled people forced to live in long-stay mental health hospitals. Reviews are welcome but must lead to action that implements the Government’s national and international human rights obligations. I also welcome the commitment to training of health and social care staff and echo the comment from the Chief Executive and Registrar of Nursing and Midwifery Council, Andrea Sutcliffe that this training must be developed with and delivered by learning disabled people.”