Out of Sight, not Out of Mind

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNT?
Almost everyone we spoke to agreed that people spending their entire adult life living on a ward with no personal space
or possessions was not acceptable. People’s basic human rights to have some choice over their lives are better served
by more personalised care.
Residents of Monyhull Hospital:
vs
People with Learning Disabilities
living in the community:
were not allowed to live as couples or have children
had no control over their finances, but did not
need to worry about money or accommodation
had no choice over when or what they ate
could work (although didn’t earn much)
have relationships and families much more
frequently, although still much less than the
general population
have to manage their money and deal with the
benefits system
have much more choice over what and when they
eat, whether living independently or in a care
home
find it very difficult to find a job – only 6% have
paid work
had access to many social and sporting
activities on site
had access to medical care, physiotherapy and
dental services
“We have learnt that those who need help
actually contribute to our society in an extremely
important way. They make our society fully human.
They bring out the best in people, encouraging us
to be caring, be tolerant and look out for others,
rather than just thinking of ourselves.”
JACKIE EDMUNDS (Volunteer Advocate)
are less likely to play sport (only 17% play once
a week)are more likely to feel isolated. 85% of
young disabled adults from the 18 to 34-year-old
age group report feeling lonely
Find healthcare hard to access - 40% of people
with a learning disability reported a difficulty
using health services
It is very clear that people do not have enough access
to support and community life is not always easy. There
is still much work to do, but we are learning lessons all
the time.