This article is published in today's Leicester Mercury:
Health vow on learning disabilities
Health officials have signed a pledge to make sure people with learning disabilities get the care they should.
Mencap had called for improved health care for those living with learning disabilities.
The charity asked health managers to sign up to a nine-point charter that includes improving health care and information for those with learning disabilities and carers.
Managers at primary care trust NHS Leicestershire County and Rutland said they were already working on improvements.
These include developing easy-to-read leaflets about health checks and making sure those with learning disabilities receive the checks.
Training has been provided for more than 100 staff in GP practices, more than 200 involved in cervical screening and more than 100 hospital staff.
Cheryl Davenport, director of strategy at the trust, said: "We work hard to ensure people with learning disabilities get the same standards of care as other patients.
We will be promoting the principles of the charter among health staff."
