Responding to a new Health Service Safety Investigations Body (HSSIB) report, which finds that learning disability patients' needs are 'not consistently met' when in hospital, Saffron Cordery, deputy chief executive at NHS Providers said:

"This report bolsters longstanding concerns over the gaps in care provided to patients with learning disabilities.

"Trust leaders are committed to stamping out health inequalities and improving quality of care for all, but operational pressures and the lack of available data on health inequalities within the NHS have slowed progress significantly.

"Investing in training programmes would help equip hospital staff with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to provide effective care to patients with learning disabilities.

"We agree that rolling out standardised national guidance for acute learning disability liaison services could also help ensure consistent and equitable care across the country.

"Getting care right for patients with learning disabilities will mean getting care right for everyone."