National Review of Learning Disability Services published

What we did

In 2015-16 we undertook a thematic review of NHS health services for people with learning disabilities in Wales.

We completed announced inspections to seven community learning disability health teams (one in each health board area) and unannounced inspections to 25 specialised NHS residential services for people with learning disabilities.

What we found

• People with learning disabilities were treated with dignity and respect by staff working with them. 
• Access to general healthcare services was good and patients were supported to manage their health conditions.
• Health communication passports (which help hospital staff to know about a person’s individual needs and preferences), were in place for many people who are known to learning disability services.
• Staff told us of the lack of understanding of learning disabilities amongst general medical staff – parents and carers were being asked to sign consent forms for hospital treatment without checking if the person had the capacity to consent to treatment themselves.
• Residential services need to have a system in place to seek patient feedback
• Community learning disability health teams made an effort to ensure people were involved in decisions about their care.
• Community learning disability teams faced significant challenges associated with the Continuing Healthcare (CHC) funding process which could lead to delays for people and their carers. 

You can find out what recommendations we have made by reading the full report, available below.