AQO 3503/22-27
Mr David Honeyford
Alliance Party
Lagan Valley
Tabled Date: 23/04/2026
Answered On Date: 06/05/2026
Priority Written: No
Question:
To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the Learning Disability Service Framework.
Answer:
The 14-week public consultation on the Learning Disability Service Model (LDSM) and the associated Service Delivery Plan (SDP) closed on 25 November 2025. The LDSM sets out clear ambitions for young people with a learning disability, including those with complex needs, to receive lifelong, co-ordinated support, tailored to their needs and enabling choice and control. The LDSM was developed through extensive co-production with people with lived experience, carers, Trusts and the independent sector. The SDP, developed in collaboration with key partners across the sector, sets out the Department’s role in implementing and delivering the LDSM. My Department hosted a series of regional in-person and online engagement events during the consultation, which were attended by around 345 people. A summary feedback report for each roadshow has been published on the Department’s website. 264 responses were received to the consultation and initial analysis of responses shows overall support for the LDSM. My Department published an initial quantitative summary of responses on the Departmental website in January 2026. Officials are working to produce a full qualitative consultation analysis report, which will be used to inform any necessary amendments required to finalise the LDSM/SDP by Spring 2026. Once finalised, the LDSM and SDP will require a decision on how services need to be reconfigured, and any additional investment required. This will include an updated LD Workforce Plan which will be needed to support delivery. I am clear that the ambitions outlined within the LDSM will only be realised if my Department is able to secure the necessary funding to support implementation. The LDSM and SDP will also be reviewed in the context of the recommendations in the Muckamore Abbey Hospital Inquiry Report, when this is published.
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