Manx Mencap: “We have not been well served”, amid ALDS failings

Disability charity says issues in care system must no longer be ignored

A charity that supports the Island’s disability sector has described the findings of a recent review into adult learning disability services as “shocking and stark”, warning that vulnerable people have been sidelined by a system beset by longstanding failings.

Director of Manx Mencap Frances Tinkler says the conclusions of the independent Cordis Bright review - published in May - came as no surprise to families, despite the severity of the findings.

“We were aware of what the report was likely going to say,” she told Manx Radio, “But it didn’t prepare us for what really was in the report. It was shocking across the board.”

The review was commissioned by Manx Care, and found the Island’s residential model for adults with learning disabilities is outdated, overly reliant on institutional care and lacks a strategic vision.

It highlighted inappropriate placements, restrictive practices, and poor coordination between services.

Mrs Tinkler says those issues have been raised repeatedly by families over many years, and were only worsened by the Covid pandemic.

“The strategy was making progress, but it was disbanded when Covid hit. Since then, people with disabilities have been told they’re covered under other strategies – but we have not been well served.”

She is calling for the government and service providers to listen more closely to those with lived experience and develop a care system that meets the needs of people with additional needs.

“Not only are these the most vulnerable in our society, but they are also the most sidelined.”

Manx Care has said it accepts the findings of the report and that work to improve the service is already underway, but meaningful change will take time.

You can listen to the full interview here: