NHS Dorset welcomes review into learning disablities care (From Dorset Echo)

NHS Dorset welcomes review into learning disablities care

3:00pm Saturday 28th March 2009 in News

NHS Dorset has welcomed the Health Service and Local Ombudsmen review into care for people with learning disabilities.

The report found patients with learning difficulties nationwide were often treated less favourably, resulting in ‘prolonged suffering’ and ‘inappropriate care’.

It has been applauded by Weymouth campaigner Wendy Webb – whose brother Paul Farrell has learning disabilities – who called it ‘distressing’ yet ‘essential’.

Now NHS Dorset has vowed to review the report’s recommendations in relation to services for people with learning difficulties in the county.

A spokesman said: “We work closely with Dorset County Council to ensure that there are good, safe services for people with learning disabilities.

“There is a joint ‘Health Action Group’, chaired by a parent carer, with a remit to ensure that local health services meet the needs of people with learning disabilities.

“This includes working with local general practice teams and with hospital services.”

NHS Dorset said it was also working with partners on the ‘Moving on from Hospital’ programme – enabling people to enjoy ‘truly fulfilling lives’ within local communities.

The spokesman added: “We aim to ensure people with learning disabilities, and their families and carers, are fully involved with and contribute to all these activities and programmes.”