2022-08-15 15:23:30
Collaboration, not silos, is the key to improving the future of people living with a learning disability
A collaborative approach between Integrated Care Systems (ICS) and Integrated Care Boards (ICB), which bring healthcare, social care, mental health and community services together into one setting, is the only way forward to support the future for people living with a learning disability.
This is according to a new report from digital health and care consultancy firm Channel 3 and supported by strategic leaders including national learning disability charity, Hft.
The report found that the role of ICSs and ICBs will be critical in providing the necessary leadership and vehicle for local system change.
“There is a moral, social, equality, diversity, inclusivity and economic justification for a radical rethink in our national and local approaches to supporting people living with a learning disability,” says Ralph Cook, Partner at Channel 3 Consulting.
“The formation of ICSs and ICBs provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform the outcomes we currently achieve and improve the lives of the 1.2 million people living with a learning disability and their families, carers and support networks,” Cook continues.
Emma Nichols, Personalised Technology Manager at Hft, says that delivering this new future will significantly improve life outcomes as well as begin to address the significant financial challenges that many local systems face.
“Poor outcomes from the current service model can be overcome if we have the ambition and appetite to transform our approach.
“We are failing to digitally enable the traditional model of care and this is where ICS leads can help by embedding it into commissioning models and the frontline practice of health and care staff.
“For integration to be a success, addressing comprehensive challenges within the social care system – such as strengthening the workforce, realising the full potential of technology and greater investment in community-based support – is an important prerequisite.
“Undoubtedly, integration will be transformative, but it is vital that health and social care receive sufficient funding to ensure the future sustainability of both sectors, as only then will the Government’s ambitions become a reality,” says Nichols.
Notes to editors
For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk
About Hft
Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.
Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.
In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.
Learning disability versus difficulty
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.
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For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk
