Limited progress in improving the way autistic people and
individuals with learning disabilities are treated is to be
examined by the Health and Social Care Committee.
The short inquiry will hold the first
of two evidence sessions next week with particular focus on the
use of restraint and “sectioning”. It will also consider issues
around seclusion, taking into account criticisms regarding human
rights.
Alexis Quinn, who is diagnosed with autism and has spoken
publicly of her poor experiences of being held in the secure
estate, will appear before MPs at the first session.
Health and Social Care Committee Chair Rt Hon MP said:
“Autistic people and those with learning disabilities have been
disproportionately affected by the pandemic but many issues
around their care predate it.
“10 years on from Winterbourne View we have still not transferred
everyone that should be into proper community care and there are
still serious human rights issues around the use of restraint and
seclusion.
“We intend to shine a light on these issues and hope that
proposed changes to mental health legislation will result in much
needed change.”
ENDS
The inquiry will consider what the Government plans to reform
mental health legislation will mean for autistic people and
individuals with learning disabilities. A white paper on
reforming the Mental Health Act was published last month.
Further information:
The Health and Social Care Committee has launched a separate
Children
and Young People’s Mental Health inquiry. It will consider
services in this area.
