As part of Learning Disability Week 2018 – which was held from 18 to 24 June and was all about health – I met with campaigners from Mencap at a reception in Parliament.
A big focus for Mencap has been its new Treat me well is our campaign to transform how the NHS treats people with a learning disability in hospital, with the aim of making hospitals more accessible and friendly for those with a learning disability.
Mencap are using Learning Disability Week 2018 to spread the word about the problems people with a learning disability can face in getting good healthcare in hospital, and how this can be changed.
The campaign is also about providing a chance for people with a learning disability and NHS staff to celebrate and share good practice, and to work together to improve care that isn't good enough.
At the reception in the House of Commons, I had the opportunity to meet with people with a learning disability and other health professionals.
The host, Baroness Hollins, also gave a speech together with the Minister for Care Caroline Dinenage MP, Shadow Minister Barbara Keeley MP, Chair of the APPG on Learning Disability, the Rt. Hon Mark Harper MP as well as people with a learning disability.
Our health service is first class, and the quality of care offered to all patients is exceptional. But, for those with a learning disability, there is sometimes a need for extra support to ensure they get the access to the same services as other patients. I would urge people to find out more about the Treat me well campaign.