Individuals with learning disabilities are unlawfully being challenged with ‘Do not resuscitate’ orders during the Coronavirus pandemic. National charities have already campaigned and successfully challenged many unlawful do not resuscitate (DNR’s), these are put in place based solely on the patients disability, not according to any serious underlying health conditions.

Being refused medical treatment because you have a protected characteristic is direct discrimination under the Equality Act and Human rights Act. They are not being listened to, they are not being spoken to about their wishes. 

A recent review funded by the National Institute for Health Research and Confidential inquiry into the Premature Deaths of people with Learning Disabilities concluded that one of the problems they found was that unjustified DNACPR decisions are being made in the context of physical and mental disabilities. People are being subjected to CPR attempts which are contrary to their wishes, and this is in a range of settings not just hospitals; in their homes and care homes. 

We need an alternative approach; engage, recruit and involve patient and carer groups and allow groups of health care professionals work collaboratively with the individuals close family, friends and those important to them be their voice if they are unable to. A decision support network should be established across all care settings when considering a persons life.