An expected rise in the number of people with learning disabilities means the nursing workforce will need to adapt, according to a new report published today.
The report aims to ensure that people with learning disabilities of all ages have access to expert Learning Disabilities Nurses and that their families and carers get the best support and care. It also seeks to make best use of Learning Disabilities Nurses throughout the entire health and social care system and improve the career image of learning disabilities nursing as a whole.
The number of people with learning disabilities is expected to grow by 14 per cent between 2001 and 2021 as advances in science and care mean people with learning disabilities are living longer and more fulfilled lives.
The review was commissioned and led by the Chief Nursing Officer for Scotland on behalf of chief nursing officers across the UK. It involved a four-country partnership approach and included wide stakeholder involvement. The review sets out a renewed focus for the four UK governments to ensure there is an appropriately skilled workforce to cope with the increasing demand. Each of the four UK countries will consider how the recommendations from the review will be implemented, and will participate within a UK-wide Steering Group which is to be set up to support the programme of work.
