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Commissioning service close to home: Note of clarification for commissioners and regulation and inspection authorities

  • Document type:
    Publication
  • Author:
    Department of Health
  • Published date:
    4 November 2004
  • Primary audience:
    Professionals
  • Gateway reference:
    4075
  • Pages:
    3
  • Copyright holder:
    Crown Copyright

This provides clarification on the policy framework for commissioning learning disability services and emphasises the key principle that local needs should be addressed by local expertise and resources.

The Healthcare Commission and the Department of Health (DH) have noted a growing number and size of, often remote, independent sector hospitals for people with learning disabilities.  The White Paper, Valuing People (DH 2001), and subsequent guidance clearly sets out the policy framework for commissioners of services for people with learning disabilities.  Whilst acknowledging that there may be a need for some specialist regional provision, it emphasises the key principle that local needs should be addressed by local expertise and resources.

The Department of Health has published this clarification note for commissioners & regulation and inspection authorities.

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