According to new analysis released today by the Health Foundation, NHS in England could face a shortfall of almost 40,000 nurses by 2024.

Jackie O’Sullivan, Executive Director of Advocacy , Activism and Communications at Mencap, said:“This shocking analysis from the Health Foundation must be an immediate spur for further action. As the recent Learning Disability Mortality Review (LeDeR) report shows, devastating health inequalities create a situation where men and women with a learning disability die over 20 years earlier than the general population. Learning disability nurses play a vital role in many health and care settings and are key to ensuring this group of people, who are so often forgotten, excluded and discriminated against, get thehealthcare support and reasonable adjustments they need. Learning disability nurses make all the difference to care outcomes but there is already a huge shortage of people in this crucial role. 

We urgently need a comprehensive workforce strategy from the government , combined with further investment in training and retaining nurses. The 1.5 million people across the UK with a learning disability have the right to care that meets their needs and supports them to live happy and healthy lives.”

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