The Ambulatory Care Centre and Medical Day Unit (ACC/MDU) at the New QEII Hospital are celebrating a significant achievement after becoming the first department within the trust to receive official Purple Star recognition for their work in improving care for people with learning disabilities.
Led by Aimée Saunders and her dedicated team, ACC/MDU committed over the past year to embedding “Purple Pledges” – a set of standards based on Hertfordshire County Council’s Purple Star initiative. The initiative is underpinned by eight “Purple Principles” designed to ensure reasonable adjustments are consistently made for people with learning disabilities accessing healthcare services.
The Purple Star Steering Committee – made up of people with learning disabilities, carers and professionals – reviewed the team’s pledges and were impressed with the department’s commitment and practical implementation, resulting in the unit achieving official Purple Star recognition.
This initiative tackles a critical health inequality. It is well known that people with learning disabilities often face barriers to accessing healthcare and can experience poorer health outcomes as a result. The ACC/MDU team’s pledges are focused on ensuring inclusive, personalised care – supporting patients through reasonable adjustments and creating an environment where everyone can access healthcare equitably.
Some of the team’s pledges include:
- Using easy-read appointment letters and adapting communication methods to suit individual needs.
- Actively using the Purple Folder to better understand each patient’s preferences and support requirements
- Offering quieter spaces for patients who struggle with busy environments
- Extending appointment times when necessary and keeping patients informed to reduce stress during waiting times
- Displaying safeguarding information and encouraging feedback on their service for people with learning disabilities.
The department’s commitment is ongoing. The team has pledged to review and improve their approach regularly to ensure long-term impact and sustainability.
This outstanding effort stands as a model of inclusive practice and demonstrates the power of teamwork and commitment to equity in healthcare.
