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Suzy Ward, the caretaker of a young adult with complex needs in Londonderry, has expressed dissatisfaction with the care system that she believes is failing individuals like her son, Eoin Ward. Aged 19, Eoin has been diagnosed with Down’s syndrome, autism, and ADHD, requiring round-the-clock care due to his challenging behaviors and complex needs. Suzy, a former specialized nurse in Emergency Departments, highlighted the importance of structured, age-appropriate environments with peer support for Eoin to thrive and make progress.
After completing his schooling at Knockavoe in Strabane, Eoin’s mother noticed a regression in his condition, attributing it to inadequate care. While the Western Trust, responsible for Eoin’s care, acknowledged the family’s concerns, they emphasized the individualized care plans created to address the needs of each service user with the available resources. Suzy described the exhaustion of caring for Eoin, who only sleeps two hours a night, emphasizing the mental toll it has taken on her without respite during the day.
Despite the offer of a day place by the Western Trust, Suzy found the elderly-focused setting unsuitable, citing high risks of choking and safety concerns. Advocating for environments where Eoin can engage with peers of his own age and receive appropriate support, Suzy raised the need for legislative changes to ensure post-19 care for young adults with complex needs. Comparing the lack of such laws in Northern Ireland to England’s legal provisions for continuing education plans until the age of 25, Suzy urged for increased funding and resources to support individuals like Eoin through adulthood.
Acknowledging the transitional challenges faced by young people with learning disabilities and their families, the Western Health and Social Care Trust emphasized the importance of early, coordinated planning involving families. While the trust highlighted the individualized care plans tailored to the needs of each service user within the available resources, they also assured ongoing engagement with families to address concerns and provide support
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