Extended care pathways meet the needs of complex Learning Disabilities
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Research has highlighted that individuals with Learning Disability are more likely than non-learning disabled people to present with mental illnesses including Schizophrenia, Autistic Spectrum Disorders and Mood Disorders. Such co-morbidity often requires longer periods of treatment and rehabilitation. To address this need, not for profit charity, St Andrew’s, has added two low secure pathways to its men’s services.
“Continual re-assessment of service users has demonstrated the need for more bespoke units and care pathways”, said Lynn Baxter, Clinical Services Manager, Services for Men. “Making a clear distinction between individuals who also present with challenging or offending behaviours and those who do not has undoubtedly facilitated service user progression.”
“50% of our nurses specialise in the treatment and rehabilitation of individuals with Learning Disability, with the rest focusing on Mental Health”, continued Lynn. “This balance ensures that we can offer our service users the very best treatment, particularly those affected by co-morbidity.”
The three units, Geoffrey Hawkins, Ferguson and Bradlaugh, accommodate 44 men of working age across a range of security levels from medium through to low. Drawing on it’s long standing expertise, St Andrew’s admits and cares for individuals who have mild to borderline Learning Disability (IQ less than 85), as well as individuals who also present with challenging or offending behaviour.