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Forum Brief: Disability framework
Health secretary John Reid and chairman of the Disability Rights Commission Bert Massie have announced a joint Framework for Partnership Action on disability to help deliver improvements for disabled people in health and social care settings.
Government Response: Department of Health
John Reid, health secretary, said: "I am delighted to be able to announce this Partnership Framework. By working closely with the Disability Rights Commission we will be better able to deliver on our joint aim to improve the experiences of all disabled people, both service users and employees, in the health and social care system."
Forum Response: Disability Rights Commission
Bert Massie, chairman of the Disability Rights Commission, said: "Achieving high quality health care and patient choice means providing health services that meet individual needs and preferences. One third of all people using NHS services are disabled, ensuring that they are able to use health services in the same way as everyone else is vitally important.
"The framework we have developed with the Department of Health provides clear steps for front line NHS staff to take to meet their obligations under the DDA and with it deliver high quality health care to all who need it."
Forum Response: Disabilities Trust
Matt Townsend, public affairs officer for the Disabilities Trust, said: "The Disabilities Trust welcomes today's announcement of a joint partnership between the government and DRC to improve the provision of NHS services for disabled people. And coming as it does just a day after the Guide Dogs Association launched their campaign for improved health care access, it is a very timely announcement! Lets hope that the NHS can put these principles into action before the October deadline for DDA compliance.
"In particular it's pleasing to see that the joint Framework encompasses issues around staff training as well as improvements in the type and quality of information available. Many of the people whom we support have what are sometimes called 'hidden' disabilities such as autism or acquired brain injury. It's therefore vitally important that staff who may come into contact with people who have such impairments are able to recognise their needs and respond accordingly."
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