This week is Learning Disability Awareness Week and I would like to share some information and facts which may help us to understand and appreciate our responsibilities to ensure that we use all the resources at our disposal to ensure those with Learning Disabilities are not disadvantaged during their time in our services either as out patients or inpatients.
- It is known that people with learning disabilities have far greater healthcare needs than the general population.
- The evidence suggests that people with a learning disability are 58 more times likely to die before the age of 50 than the general population
- People with learning disabilities can find it more difficult to identify and describe symptoms of illness, and much harder to navigate the health care system. These problems also make it more difficult for care professionals to deliver treatment effectively.
Individuals with learning disabilities lead fulfilling and normal lives outside the health care system and it is important that their time with us is supported to enable them to continue this as far as possible whilst they are with us and when they leave us no matter how short their stay. It is vital that we ensure that those who normally care for an individual with a learning disability are involved as much as possible in their and are listened to to help us provide the right care for each individual.
We are fortunate to have a Learning Disability Health Liaison Team who cover all our hospital sites. They can also offer training sessions for your department. Please contact Sally Wright on 07553384945 for further details.
If you are a carer for someone with learning disabilities who needs to access our services then please contact the manager of the ward or department before an appointment or admission where possible to help us plan their care. Equally if you are a carer or individual with learning disabilities who can offer us advice on how we might improve our care please contact me.
Best Wishes
Helen
