CQC to Lead on Independent Care and Treatment Reviews: A Step Towards Improved Lives for Autistic Individuals and Those with Learning Disabilities
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is proud to announce that the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has entrusted us with the continuation of our leadership in the Independent Care (Education) and Treatment Reviews (ICETRs) program. This program is a crucial initiative aimed at ensuring that the care and treatment provided to individuals with autism and learning disabilities who are in long-term segregation (LTS) undergoes thorough independent scrutiny.
The program's duration has been extended until March 2028, marking a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts. We initiated this project two years ago, collaborating closely with our colleagues at NHS England. This initiative emerged as a response to the recommendations put forth by Baroness Hollins in her review of previous programs and the insights gained from our report on restraint, prolonged seclusion, and segregation for individuals with autism and learning disabilities, titled 'Out of sight – who cares' (https://www.cqc.org.uk/publications/themed-work/rssreview).
Recently, we unveiled preliminary findings in our State of Care report (https://www.cqc.org.uk/publications/major-report/state-care/2024-2025), and we will continue to delve into the themes emerging from our ICETR reviews, incorporating feedback from participants and their loved ones. We anticipate sharing more of these insights in the coming year.
Rebecca Bauers, CQC's Director for individuals with learning disabilities and autistic people, expressed her enthusiasm for the program's continuation, stating:
'Our team is thrilled to see this initiative persist, and we are fully committed to its success. We are making tangible progress, with an increasing number of individuals transitioning out of long-term segregation. However, there is still much work to be done. It is imperative to enhance the lives of those currently in long-term segregation and to collaborate with partners in their journey towards leaving this environment. Our ultimate goal is to provide every individual with high-quality, person-centered care and support them in living independently within their own homes and communities.'
The extended program duration will enable us to expand our efforts, ultimately facilitating the release of more autistic individuals and those with learning disabilities from long-term segregation.
