Bethany Scott-Wright desperately wanted to work but the odds were stacked against her. The 22-year-old from Bromley has autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) a behavioural condition marked by frequent temper outbursts, defiance and hostility, particularly toward authority figures like teachers and bosses. In the UK, people with learning difficulties and disabilities face the highest unemployment rate of any group a staggering 95 per cent, according to the British Association for Supported Employment.
The annual mortality review commissioned by NHS England was originally meant to be published last year but faced repeated delays. It found 39% of deaths of people with learning disabilities and autism were classed as avoidable in 2023, almost twice as high as the general population. NHS England said it was rolling out more training for staff and identifying patients with learning disabilities earlier so they can be given more "appropriate care".