New initiative in Essex supports health checks for people with learning disabilities
NHS Essex teams up with Hamelin charity to improve care access
A new partnership between NHS Essex and the charity Hamelin aims to enhance health services for people with learning disabilities in Essex.
The initiative targets areas where annual health checks uptake is below expectations, focusing on increasing access and providing personalised support.
Annual health checks play a crucial role in detecting health issues early and preventing severe conditions, as advised by the NHS Long Term Plan, which aspires for at least 75% of individuals aged 14 and over with a learning disability to receive these checks.
This target, however, remains unmet in certain regions of Essex.
Tom Abell, Chief Executive of NHS Essex, emphasised the importance of not just conducting checks but ensuring subsequent support is provided:
"Annual health checks can make a real difference for people with a learning disability, but only if they lead to the right support afterwards.
This partnership with Hamelin is about making sure people are listened to, their health needs are understood, and they get practical, personalised help to stay well.
By working closely with GP practices, charities and people with lived experience, we can make care more proactive, more personal, and easier to access — exactly what we mean by making NHS services better in Essex."
Ru Watkins, Chief Executive of Hamelin, expressed enthusiasm for the programme, noting it prioritises community engagement:
"We are delighted to be working with NHS Essex on this groundbreaking programme. By working alongside people with learning disabilities, we can ensure their voices are heard and that support is shaped around what matters most to them and their families.
This is about more than completing a check. The programme will join up services and sectors to improve, and in some cases create health and care pathways. It will develop a different way of thinking of how we can work together to build sustainable communities. Ultimately it is about helping people stay well and live healthier lives so they can achieve their aspirations."
As part of the pilot scheme, GP practices will receive support to boost health check numbers and work directly with patients to develop personalised health action plans.
Hamelin, alongside local partners, will maintain delivery of tailored support beyond the initial health check, ensuring individuals achieve their health goals and access additional services as needed.