Source: Mencap published on this website Thursday 7 November 2024 by Jill Powell
Jon Sparkes, OBE, Chief Executive of learning disability charity Mencap, said:
“This Bill can’t come soon enough for the 2,000 people with a learning disability and/or autism who are stuck in mental health hospitals right now, as well as those at risk of admission.
“Reforming the Act is key to ending inappropriate detention and placing new duties on commissioners to ensure the right community support is developed.
“We welcome the inclusion of reforms to stop people with a learning disability and autistic people being detained when they don’t have a mental health condition. The NHS’s own reviews have shown that over 40% of people trapped in mental health hospitals do not need to be there, yet they face an average of nearly five years locked away.
“The Bill must put in place strong duties to develop the right community support, including social care and suitable housing, which alongside the Bill’s other reforms could bring this scandal to an end.
“We will scrutinise the Bill to make sure it delivers the change we want and need to see for people with a learning disability.”
Mencap exists to ensure the UK is the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives. Mencap support people directly and campaign with people with a learning disability, their families and carers. Mencap work to change laws, increase representation and campaign for better health, social care and employment opportunities for the 1.5 million people with a learning disability in the UK.
