Chris Loder, MP for West Dorset, has welcomed planned investment of £40.5 million by NHS South West to improve acute mental health care for individuals with a learning disability and autistic people in the region. The Learning Disability and Autism Bed Capacity Programme will deliver twenty new mental health hospital beds in Bristol and Devon, which will end long-distance placements and benefit individuals and families. Mr Loder said:
“At present, it is not uncommon for patients with a learning disability or autism to be cared for at specialist facilities hundreds of miles away. It’s often reported in the media and is, quite frankly, very distressing to read. I’m really pleased that those living with a learning disability or autism that require non-mainstream hospitalisation will be able to access facilities closer to home, in either Bristol or Devon. The new facilities will be delivered alongside a highly-effective, current community services programme, which works closely with vulnerable individuals to reduce the need of using inpatient services. If you would like to know more about this planned investment, please do contact me.”
