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Government response to report on the treatment of autistic people and people with learning disabilities published

27 July 2022

The Committee’s report made a number of recommendations against the background of Government plans to reform mental health legislation. The Government said it had taken the Committee’s recommendations into account in developing its Building the Right Support action plan to strengthen community support for autistic people and people with a learning disability, and reduce reliance on mental health inpatient care.

Chair's comment

Health and Social Care Committee Chair Jeremy Hunt said:

“We welcome action taken by the government in response to our Committee’s report to improve community support for autistic people and those with a learning disability.

“Ministers accept that there must be credible alternatives to inpatient facilities, allowing people to live independent and fulfilled lives in their community.

“The government has agreed with us that there are too many instances where restrictive practices such as restraint are used. It has promised action to ensure that care for inpatients is the least restrictive possible.

“We will look to the draft Mental Health Bill to bring about reforms to further protect individuals’ rights and freedoms.”

Further information

Image: PA