Health Inequalities and people with a Learning Disability

There have been many reports over the years about the Health Inequalities of people with a learning disability, none more high profile than Death by Indifference. This was about the deaths of six people who died because they did not get the health care and treatment they needed; believed to be because they had a Learning Disability. This led to an independent inquiry into access to health care for people with a learning disability. The inquiry found convincing evidence that people with a learning disability have increased unmet health needs and less effective treatment.

Some of the reasons found for the health inequalities have been lack of awareness in GPs and lack of reasonable adjustments to enable people to access services - despite this being a legal requirement. What has been your experience of this? It would be great to hear your experiences of supporting people to access health services - both the good and the bad!.

One of the recommendations from the inquiry was for special health checks to be offered to people with a learning disability. This began back in September 2008. How many people you support, have been offered and attended a health check? What difference has this made to their health? A recent study has shown that in 2009/2010 less than 50% of people with a learning disability received a health check. It would also appear that where the person lives in the country makes a difference to whether they are offered a special health check.

How you support people with their health, how you help them self-advocate or advocate on their behalf can make a significant difference to their health. What do you think you need, to be able to do this?

Lots of questions posed for you! Let's hear your opinions and experiences!