Learning Disabilities Service - Service Delivery Model Scrutiny Review
Health in Hackney Scrutiny Commission
The Council's Health in Hackney Scrutiny Commission recently carried out a review of Learning Disabilities services. The health and wellbeing of people with a learning disability is known to be much worse than the rest of the population and they are more likely to die at a younger age. Results of the annual scrutiny residents survey suggested to review disability services. It was also known that the underlying cost pressures within the Learning Disabilities Service budget had resulted in overspends in recent years, as is the case nationally. The Commission wanted to understand what those cost pressures were, how they were being managed and how long it will take to transform the service into one which has a balanced budget.
Important findings during the review were that the new assessment process introduced with the new service model was causing anxiety and fear among service users and carers. This required improved communications to all services users and carers more widely, to explain the assessment tool being used and changes to the service. It was recognised the new service model would take time to embed, but it was important to help the service users and carers to understand that the changes to a care support package were designed to increase independence and improve health and wellbeing.
Key recommendations made:
- Consult with young service users to identify gaps in the service market and service provision
- Provide written information following an assessment to service users and carers
- Provide service users and carers with detailed information about risk and responsibilities if taking out personal budgets
- Encourage all GPs in Hackney to offer healthchecks to Learning Disabled individuals
- Communicate more widely with the learning disabled population about the new service model and produce a communication plan
- Produce all information in easy read format
- Capture service user views to help evaluate and improve
- Provide regular training to staff in learning disabled services with input from service users and carers into the training material.
The Commission's Final Report
The Commission made 7 recommendations, in the areas of service market, service provision, communication, workforce, advocacy, transport and service user voice based on the findings above.
Response from the Cabinet Member
Cllr Jonathan McShane, Cabinet Member for Health, Social Care, and Culture agreed to implement the recommendations in March 2012, saying: "this response shows we are committed to continuing and expanding this so that what is offered fully meets the needs of those who most require our assistance and support".
What has happened as a result of the review?
The Commission will hear back from the Executive in later in 2012 on how the recommendations will be implemented. Relevant information will be posted here.
What has happened as a result of the review?
The Commission will hear back from the Executive in later in 2012 on how the recommendations will be implemented. Relevant information will be posted here.
The Commission was pleased to note that following this review it has been agreed that a suite of documents will be made available in Easy Read Format using a verified company to produce them. It was also encouraging to note a dedicated worker in the LD Heath Team is working in partnership GPs and Health professionals to help close the gap in understanding LDS service user needs and what support services are available for this client group.
Page updated: 23 May 2012
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