1. Deaths of people with learning disabilities in
England have increased by 134% during the coronavirus pandemic, according
to the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Between 10 April and 15
May half of these were confirmed or suspected COVID-19 cases.
2. The government’s top scientific advisers (Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies, or Sage) discussed care homes only twice between January and May, according to newly published meeting minutes.
3. According to the Prison Reform Trust, Black people are 53% more likely to be jailed for indictable offences in the UK; and people with learning disabilities are five times more likely to be restrained in prison. However, there is limited research on outcomes for Black people who have learning disabilities – despite being an at-risk group in the criminal justice system.
4. There were many emotional reunions between family members after months apart during the lockdown. This is the moment David Sherrif was reunited with his sister, Elizabeth.
5. IPSEA have updated their list of FAQs on how the COVID-19 measures will affect children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. They have also created a new model letter to help people complain when a child is not getting enough special educational provision during the pandemic. Steve Broach, public law barrister, has also shared information about the rights of disabled children under the Coronavirus Act.
6. Throughout Carers Week this month we shared stories on social media from family carers who wanted to highlight what it really means to be a carer in 2020. Mina Akhtar wants people to stop calling family carers a ‘hidden army’ and said “we’re not invisible, just ignored”. Tracy, another family carer, wrote about the need for serious reform to support family carers.
7. The Association of Directors of Adult Social Services has released their 2020/21 adult social care budget report. According to the report, only 4% of directors are confident that their budgets are sufficient to meet their statutory duties this year - down from 35% in 2019/20. This is a significant admission regarding councils’ inability to comply with the law.
8. A new blog by The Open Justice Court of Protection Project about a recent Court of Protection case highlights the importance of using the word 'death' when discussing treatment options with people who have learning disabilities.
9. Organisations in County Durham have been running an important service during the lockdown called 'Keeping People Connected', which aims to support adults with learning disabilities and autism to understand the latest government guidance, stay active and keep in touch with friends
10. Does your relative have a Will? Many adults with learning disabilities acquire significant savings over their lifetime, particularly if they inherit money, but they’re not always supported to make a Will of their own until it’s too late. Mencap have an Easy Read guide to Wills which includes the steps involved and how to find a solicitor.
Finally, we want to send our very best wishes to everyone reading this newsletter at such a difficult time. Our service is still open if you need support. Most of the team are working around childcare, so we may not answer the phone (0808 801 0448) immediately, but please leave a voicemail or email familycarersupport@hft.org.uk and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
