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Learning Disability AHP Network strengthens voice of professionals in Wales

A room of people listen to a presentation.

4 February 2025

The Learning Disability Allied Health Professional (AHP) Network in Wales held its first in-person event in Cardiff on Tuesday 4 February.

The event, attended by over 40 AHPs and key stakeholders, marked a significant step forward in strengthening the voice of AHPs working within learning disability health and care services.

The network, which has grown over the past 18 months through a series of virtual meetings, is working to elevate the national role of AHPs in shaping national policy and services for the learning disability community.

Rachel Ann Jones talks as she gives a presentation. Rachel Ann Jones, National Lead for Improvement Cymru’s Learning Disability programme, said: “This event has demonstrated the strength and ambition of our AHP community in Wales. By working collaboratively, we can ensure that our collective voice is heard and that we continue to deliver high-quality, innovative care for people with a learning disability.”

Attendees included AHPs who specialise in learning disabilities, alongside members of the Ministerial Advisory Group for the Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, MS Sarah Thomas.

Ruth Crowder talks as she gives a presentation. The day’s programme featured a welcome address from Ruth Crowder, Chief AHP in Wales, who highlighted the critical contributions of AHPs across inpatient and community specialist services. She emphasised the importance of amplifying the AHP voice in policy discussions.

A packed agenda included:

  • Networking and collaboration: A series of interactive networking exercises helped to build new connections.
     
  • Mapping and future planning: Participants took part in mapping exercises to identify priorities and later established a formal Terms of Reference (ToR) to guide future meetings.
     
  • Insights and learning: Adam Watkins, a data analyst for Improvement Cymru, delivered a presentation on the findings of the report “An Overview of People with a Learning Disability Who Have Died in Wales Between 2012 and 2022,” with discussions on its implications for AHPs.
     
  • Sharing good practice: Delegates showcased their own practice and explored ways to inform and influence policy.

The network includes professionals from across the 13 AHP groups registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), such as occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, psychologists, and physiotherapists. Their work spans the healthcare, social care, and education.

Plans are now underway for future events and initiatives as the network builds on its momentum.

If you would like to join the network or find out more about upcoming meetings, please get in touch with: improvementcymru_ld@wales.nhs.uk