Despite efforts to reduce institutionalisation, around 2,000 people with learning disabilities and/or autism in England remain in long-stay hospital settings, often facing prolonged stays and poor care. Research on why discharges are delayed is limited and rarely includes the perspectives of those affected or their families, and frontline staff. This review highlights inconsistent reporting and the need to listen to lived experiences to develop effective solutions.
Despite efforts to reduce institutionalisation, around 2,000 people with learning disabilities and/or autism in England remain in long-stay hospital settings, often facing prolonged stays and poor care. Research on why discharges are delayed is limited and rarely includes the perspectives of those affected or their families, and frontline staff. This review highlights inconsistent reporting and the need to listen to lived experiences to develop effective solutions.