All inpatients with autism to get case reviews

The Department of Health and Social Care has said that every inpatient with a learning disability or autism in a mental health hospital will have their case reviewed over the next 12 months.

Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock said that the government will commit to providing each patient with a date for discharge, or where this is not appropriate, a clear explanation of why and a plan to move them closer towards being ready for discharge into the community. This is likely to benefit all 2,250 patients with learning disabilities and autism who are inpatients in a mental health hospital.

For those in long-term segregation, an independent panel, chaired by Baroness Sheila Hollins, will be established to oversee their case reviews to further improve their care and support them to be discharged back to the community as quickly as possible. The panel will include independent experts who will monitor, challenge and advise on the progress of case reviews of those in the most restrictive settings, with the aim of supporting more people to be discharged.

The government is also confirming that every NHS and social care worker will receive mandatory training relevant to their role. The training is backed by £1.4 million of government funding and will focus on: understanding learning disability and autism; legislation and rights; and making reasonable adjustments such as using different communication methods for autistic people with sensory sensitivities.

Hancock said: “For those living with learning disabilities and autistic people, the current system can leave them in isolation for long periods of time, with no prospect of release into the community. I am determined to put this right and today we are committing to reviewing the care of every patient with learning disability and autism over the next 12 months – alongside a clear plan to get them discharged back into their homes and communities. I have also asked for advice on separating out the law regarding those with learning disabilities and autism from the law regarding mental health.

“This will start with those in the most restrictive settings. I am delighted Baroness Hollins has agreed to chair our new independent panel to make sure that they are supported to discharge as quickly as possible. Baroness Hollins brings a wealth of experience and will provide the right level of scrutiny and challenge to ensure that everything possible is done to improve care on the ground.”