On World Mental Health Day, Richard visited Byron Court.
Speaking after the visit, Richard said:
"Today, I met the team and patients at Byron Court in Billericay run by Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust to learn more about the service provided to patients with learning disabilities, some of whom also have autism. We are lucky to have it in our area amd Byron Court is one of only two facilities in Essex catering for those with Learning Disabilities who need long-term care.
The team here are fantastic and incredibly knowledgeable, and the site itself is really well put together. I had seen signs for it when visiting Billericay Town but I’m glad to have popped in now.
Naturally, we discussed NHS policy and serious concerns about the future of learning disability nursing.
I’ll be raising this with Government as it is imperative we continue to train these specific nurses – especially as I was told the East of England needs many more learning disability nurses and that, really sadly, there are patients with learning disabilities that are passing away younger than expected because of a lack of care.
It was especially important to visit today as it is #WorldMentalHealthDay today too - and those with learning disabilities are more likely to suffer from mental health issues too.
With a focus on mental health, there are many 24/7 services available for anyone that is struggling. You can call NHS 111 and select the mental health option, 999 if you are in a serious crisis, or even charities like the Samaritans on 116 123, YoungMinds on 0808 802 5544, Suicide Prevention UK - Charity on 0800 587 0800, Mind on 0300 102 1234, SANE Mental Health Charity on 0300 304 7000, Campaign Against Living Miserably on 0800 58 58 58."
