Michelle Arrowsmith champions inclusive healthcare at learning disabilities health week
Michelle Arrowsmith, ICB Deputy CEO, met people living with learning disabilities and learnt about hospital passport and how it can improve the care people receive.
At an event, hosted at The Workshop, Derby, as part of Learning Disabilities Health Week, Michelle heard how hospital passports are used in day-to-day life, what information they contain, and why they are such a valuable tool for people with learning disabilities.
Hospital passports are designed to help individuals communicate their needs, preferences, and health conditions to healthcare professionals. They play a vital role in ensuring care is personalised, respectful, and responsive to each person’s unique circumstances.
The key discussion points included:
- The importance of hospital passports in helping individuals communicate their preferences, needs, and health conditions clearly to healthcare professionals.
- Real-life examples of how hospital passports have empowered people with learning disabilities to feel more confident and understood during medical appointments.
- How healthcare professional use hospital passport to provide personalised and effective care.
This event was a collaboration of organisations – bringing together local people, community organisations, and health professionals to educate, share lived experiences, and shape services that reflect the real needs of the community.
Michelle said: “Hearing directly from people with lived experience was incredibly powerful. I learned just how valuable hospital passports can be for care providers in delivering truly person-centred care.
“It was a privilege to attend, and I left feeling inspired and reminded of the importance of listening, learning, and acting together.
The ambition is to expand the remit of hospital passports to support personalised care across a wider range of conditions, ensuring more people benefit from this simple but effective tool.
The session was a celebration of community-led innovation and the power of collaboration. It demonstrated how community-led initiatives, supported by system partners, can drive meaningful change and create more inclusive, compassionate care for everyone.
The Workshop provided an ideal setting, known for its inclusive ethos and community-driven programming. The environment encouraged open dialogue about the challenges faced by people with learning disabilities in healthcare settings and the practical steps that can be taken to address them.
Craig Fletcher, Director of The Workshop Derby, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled by the support we’ve received during our first Learning Disabilities Health Week.
“It’s been inspiring to see professionals and community members come together with a shared passion for tackling health inequalities.
“Our vision is to make this an annual event and expand the support we offer to other underserved groups.”