The ‘Hospital Passport’ scheme has been updated in an effort to improve care for individuals with autism and people with a learning disability.
Developed alongside individuals with lived experience, carers, and professionals, the passport is designed to be taken to hospital visits.
They contain vital information for individuals who may struggle to advocate for themselves.
A traffic light system is used to help staff quickly identify requirements.
Red details are vital for safe care, amber means important information on how to support the person, and anything green is additional such as personal details, routines, and preferences.
The document also details sensory needs, indicators of distress, and legal status regarding consent, capacity, and Lasting Power of Attorney.
Health and Social Care recommends passport holders should review them annually, incase they need any changes.
Deputy George Oswald, President of HSC, said the passport is important in “ensuring that anyone with a learning disability and autistic people receive safe, respectful, and person-centred care”.
“It gives individuals a stronger voice in their care and helps our staff understand what matters most to the person,” he said.
“I am grateful to everyone who contributed to this work, especially those with lived experience.”
Shelley Taylor, a Specialist Community Learning Disability Nurse, said the passports provide practical support for staff, and help to reduce patient anxiety.
She said the new updated Hospital Passport “reflects the real experiences of people with a learning disability and autistic individuals, their families, and carers.”
“It clearly captures communication preferences, sensory needs, and reasonable adjustments,” she continued.
“It provides practical support for hospital staff and reduces anxiety and improving the hospital experience for the individual. Collaboration with those with a lived experience has been key to getting this right, and we are proud to see a tool that truly represents the people it is designed to support.”
Guidance and digital copies are available via the States of Guernsey website.
