“It’s totally unacceptable that people with a learning disability are still more likely to die from avoidable medical causes. This report shows there has been little progress in ensuring they have the same right to care as everyone else.
“What’s deeply worrying is the rise in inappropriate ‘do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation’ notices (DNACPRs). This alarming trend contravenes mental health and equality laws.
“Families and social care staff need more help to challenge improper DNACPR orders. Turning Point and Learning Disability England have published a resource so they know what to do.
“But the government must step up to address this inequity of care towards those with learning disabilities.”
Notes to editors:
– The LeDeR programme reports on deaths of people with learning disabilities and autism aged four and above. A LeDeR multi-agency review is undertaken for any death where concerns exist relating to the care received. In some local areas, reviews have been in conjunction with other safeguarding or serious incident investigations. LeDeR reports make recommendations for improvements in practice across the health and social care system.
–The 7th LeDeR annual report shows that the rate of excess deaths in 2022 was almost twice as high for people with a learning disability than for the general population.
– Click here to access full details of Turning Point and LDE’s support pack for family members and social care staff. The aim of the pack is to support them to challenge inappropriate DNACPR orders. A updated version of the pack is going to be published in the new year.
– Turning Point is one of the UK’s leading health and social care providers. From detox treatment to supported living, its services help people tackle substance misuse and mental health issues, and those with learning disabilities lead independent lives.