Mental health and people with learning disabilities in Northern Ireland: an overview of current policy

Abstract

In 2002, a Review of Mental Health and Learning Disability in Northern Ireland was launched, which reported during 2005‐6 and produced a framework for future learning disability and mental health services. This article will address three broad areas: first, it will provide an overview of the current structure of health and social services within Northern Ireland and summarise how these structures are expected to change within the next few years. Second, it will outline the key policy objectives in relation to the health of people with learning disabilities, giving particular attention to individuals among this population who develop mental health problems. Third, it will consider some key challenges that may lie ahead if the recently stated policy objectives are to be realised.

Citation

Barr, O. (2007), "Mental health and people with learning disabilities in Northern Ireland: an overview of current policy", Advances in Mental Health and Learning Disabilities, Vol. 1 No. 1, pp. 13-17. https://doi.org/10.1108/17530180200700004