The Department of Health and Social Care acknowledges the concerns raised but states that NHS England will provide a full response, as the concerns are more appropriately addressed by them. (AI summary)
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Thank you for the Regulation 28 report of 13 November 2025 sent to the Department of Health and Social Care about the death of Jacqueline Aarons. I am replying as the Minister with responsibility for disabilities.
Firstly, I would like to say how saddened I was to read of the circumstances of Miss Aarons’ death, and I offer my sincere condolences to her family and loved ones. The circumstances your report describes are concerning and I am grateful to you for bringing these matters to my attention.
The report raises concerns about the threshold at which patients with learning disability are admitted to hospital; the requirement for in-person consultations with a doctor; and the provision of safety netting advice for those with caring responsibilities who are not medically trained.
In considering your report, officials within the Department of Health and Social Care have made enquiries with NHS England and concluded that these concerns are more appropriately addressed by NHS England directly. I am advised that NHS England will therefore provide you with a full and comprehensive response on the concerns you have raised.
I hope this response is helpful.