AQW 41707/22-27

Mr Nick Mathison
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 03/03/2026
Answered On Date: 06/04/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the implementation of the draft We Matter Learning Disability Service Model For Northern Ireland.

Answer:

My officials are currently analysing responses to the recent public consultation on the draft ‘We Matter’ Learning Disability Service Model (LDSM) and associated Service Delivery Plan (SDP), which closed on 25 November 2025. An initial high level summary report was published on my Department’s website in January 2026, with a full analysis report expected to be published in Spring 2026.

The consultation findings will be used to inform my decisions on finalisation of the Service Model, and I will also wish to consider any relevant recommendations that may arise from the report of the Muckamore Abbey Hospital Inquiry.

Once finalised, the Service Model and SDP will inform the future configuration of Learning Disability services, including any additional investment required to support delivery. Delivery of the ambitions set out in the Model will be subject to funding made available to my Department.