Needs-based staffing with acuity measures

Staffing should be based on service user needs rather than a fixed budget, using daily acuity measures designed specifically for units caring for people with learning disabilities. These should include enhanced supervision requirements, personal care support and therapeutic activities. Service managers should receive weekly reports of data of the staff hours needed per day per ward or facility. Monthly reports of these figures should be published by ward or facility by the Department of Health (DoH). This should apply to all facilities in which people with learning disabilities are resident, including private and third sector provision.