Tough times ahead
Hospital fined and told to improve safety after preventable death
Services will struggle to meet demand as the number of children born with learning disabilities grows
Charity campaigns to change mindset of healthcare staff
Roger Banks reports on Mencap’s bid to eradicate complacency and prejudice from the health service
Book reviews, Viewpoint
Veteran of the academic conference circuit Alex McClimens urges more people to participate to keep it fresh
Liberating legislation
Thom Hudson says the Mental Capacity Act needs to be applied with care for people with severe and complex needs
Diary, Noticeboard, Awards
Research round-up, On the web
The potential effects of insomnia on quality of life
Research highlights the benefits of integrating a sleep routine into service users’ care plans. Paul Dinsdale reports
Taking action on hate crime
More support is available for victims of bullying and harassment
Computer software can help users to make informed decisions
Warren Oldreive and Mary Waight explain how a program called Clicker 5 can help people understand issues affecting their lives
An introduction to gentle teaching
A strategy that helps to build safe, caring relationships with people with challenging behaviours is explained by Pouwel van de Siepkamp
Promoting annual health checks through community outreach
Sharon Dixon and colleagues describe an annual fair that offers screening in an informal way
Fluid balance
Kerry Welch discusses how various conditions can affect a person’s ability to maintain optimum hydration independently