Welcoming a Nuffield Trust call to make it easier for people with a learning disability to get the care they need, Sir Julian Hartley, chief executive, NHS Providers, said:

"NHS trusts are committed to improving access to and the quality of care for people with a learning disability. Leaders are concerned too many people aren't getting the support they need and should expect.

"Trusts know that there is more that they can do to improve the quality of care for everybody but we need greater national action to ensure there are enough staff with the right skills and experience to support people with a learning disability and to make sure that the full range of services which people need are funded properly and prioritised nationwide.

"Overstretched services and staff right across the health and care system are working flat out to provide the best care possible. We need a joined-up approach to tackle disparities in access to, and outcomes from, healthcare for people with a learning disability plus much greater capital investment so that patients get the care they need in the right environments."