Expert Patient Programme Support Network
Background
People with Learning Disabilities and the Expert Patient Programme
In 2006, Suffolk PCT reported that every year, 147,000 – 178,000 people suffer with
mental illness (Joint Strategic Needs Assessment for Suffolk, 2008-2011). People
with learning disabilities suffer from a plethora of health problems. As a result, they
are 58 times more likely to die before the age of 50 years (Implementing Health Care
for all for People with Learning Disabilities – NHS Suffolk Sep 2008).
The Expert Patient Programme
The Expert Patient Programme (EPP) is primarily a chronic disease management
training programme, designed for adults with long term health conditions. It enables
individuals to take control of their health by learning new skills to manage their
conditions better. In September 2010, Suffolk County Council commissioned The
Expert Patient Programme training specifically targeting people with mild to moderate
learning disabilities. The training was hosted by Genesis and as an outcome, the
group was formed.
The Expert Patient Programme Support Network (EPPSN) was formed in January
2011 and is still being hosted by Genesis.
Why provide EPP for people with learning disabilities
Protecting vulnerable people and reducing inequalities is one of the Suffolk County
Council’s (SCC) key priorities within the county and is a priority which it takes very
seriously. It was estimated that in 2009, 2,344 people with moderate or severe
learning disability were living in Suffolk. This is predicted to rise to 2,746 people by
2030, a rise of 17% (Suffolk County Council -Suffolk Trends 2009 p43).
SCC bought into the idea of empowering people to take control of their health by
providing EPP programmes in the past, but, it acknowledges that no such targeting
had been made within the people with learning disabilities arena. SCC accepted that
this needed to be addressed and, therefore, commissioned this piece of work
The aim of the group
The aim of this user led group is to improve health service provision and
delivery for people with learning disabilities in Suffolk by engaging with
primary and secondary health care providers. They want to make sure that
the voices of people with learning disabilities are listened to by speaking for
themselves and others who share similar experiences.
Planned Activities
The Programme is seeking to establish a health advisor to provide support and
information to people with Learning disabilities.
The group is also currently seeking funding to provide 6 exercise programmes,
delivered free of charge to anyone who want to take part.
How to contact us:
Felicia Robinson , on 01473 265970 at Suffolk County Council,
Endeavour House, Russell Road, Ipswich, IP1 2BX Felicia.robinson@suffolk.gov.uk
Or
Nino Serritiello, Orwell Mencap nino@orwellmencap.co.uk 01473 723888 option 4 + option 2