NHS cuts are putting the lives of learning disabled patients at risk, claim nurses

Reports published by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), based on a survey of hundreds of specialist learning disability nurses, reveal inconsistent levels of care intensified by budget cuts are putting vulnerable patients in danger.

Launched in response to the horrifying abuse revealed by BBC Panorama’s undercover filming at Winterbourne, the targeted programme involved 150 unannounced inspections of hospitals and care homes for people with learning disabilities.

Inspectors found major concerns at three of the ten locations.

Dr Peter Carter, chief executive at the Royal College of Nursing, says the survey results should force the government to ‘‘sit up and take notice’’.

‘‘Nationally, we are not training anywhere near the right number of specialist nurses,’’ Dr Carter explained. ‘‘Politicians need to understand that cheap care is poor care.’’

Inspections were focused on the government’s essential standards of quality and safety: the care and welfare of people who use services, and safeguarding people who use services from abuse. Major concerns were identified at: the Chaseways (Cambian Learning Disabilities Limited); Melling Acres (Parkcare Homes Limited) and the New Barn (Claremont Clare Limited).

The issues raised included: limited activities and experiences for patients due to staff shortages; out-of-date care plans and the ability of staff to follow the safeguarding policy.

A national report into the findings of the programme will be published later this year.