AQW 41707/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Health

To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the implementation of the draft We Matter Learning Disability Service Model For Northern Ireland.

Asked by Nick Mathison MLA on 3 March 2026

  • Answered
  • Written
  • After due date
Tabled
3 March 2026
Answer due by
19 March 2026
Answered
6 April 202634 days after tabling
Department
Department of Health
Priority question
No

Answer

My officials are currently analysing responses to the recent public consultation on the draft ‘We Matter’ Learning Disability Service Model (LDSM) and associated Service Delivery Plan (SDP), which closed on 25 November 2025. An initial high level summary report was published on my Department’s website in January 2026, with a full analysis report expected to be published in Spring 2026.

The consultation findings will be used to inform my decisions on finalisation of the Service Model, and I will also wish to consider any relevant recommendations that may arise from the report of the Muckamore Abbey Hospital Inquiry.

Once finalised, the Service Model and SDP will inform the future configuration of Learning Disability services, including any additional investment required to support delivery. Delivery of the ambitions set out in the Model will be subject to funding made available to my Department.

Official sources