In-patient Abuse: Autistic People and People with Learning Disabilities

Opened the debate

Barbara Keeley raised the issue of abuse faced by autistic individuals and those with learning disabilities in NHS in-patient units, highlighting stories from Channel 4's 'Dispatches' programme. She cited cases such as Amy at Breightmet Centre and Danielle at Littlebrook Hospital to illustrate systemic issues including physical restraint, solitary confinement, sexual assault, and inadequate care leading to a deterioration of conditions like eating disorders. Keeley criticised the government for failing to meet targets set since 2014 to reduce inappropriate in-patient beds and emphasised the need for better community support and workforce investment.

Government Response

Maria Caulfield acknowledged the seriousness of the issue and highlighted steps taken by the government including a rapid review of mental health in-patient settings, investments in community support services, hiring more mental health workers, and efforts to discharge patients back into the community. She emphasised reducing new admissions to inadequately rated units, working with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for improvements, ensuring high standards of care, and addressing housing challenges to facilitate discharges. Caulfield committed to further updates on progress towards improving safety and quality in these settings.