Mother Claims Autistic Son ‘Institutionalised’ After Over Six Years in Hospital

The mother of a man with autism and learning difficulties has stated that he has become institutionalised after remaining in a Western Trust hospital for more than six years. Liam Gunn, aged 27, was admitted to the hospital on 23 March 2018 for what was intended to be a three-month stay. However, he has not been released because appropriate housing has not been located for him. This past Wednesday, BBC News NI disclosed that 22 patients in adult mental health facilities are in a position to be discharged but have no alternative place to reside. The Western Trust affirmed its ongoing dedication to “working with partner agencies to help identify the most suitable supported living accommodation and placements for individuals with complex and challenging needs”. Ammie Storey, Mr. Gunn’s mother, reported that despite numerous meetings with the trust, no discernible progress appears to have occurred. “I don’t think the trust has explored suitable options for Liam,” she stated. Ms. Storey further commented that the extended hospitalization has had a “very dramatic effect” on her son. She added, “He’s become institutionalised, he has lost his sparkle.” “He doesn’t understand why he is there or what’s happening.” In an interview with Evening Extra, Ms. Storey revealed that her son has started to self-harm. “He bangs his head, he picks his skin. He’s just very distressed.” She further expressed, “I would hope that the trust does the right thing by Liam and returns him back close to his family.” “Puts the support in place that Liam needs, because Liam’s needs now are greater than what they were when he went into the hospital.” A representative for the Western Health and Social Care Trust indicated that the organization maintains consistent communication with families. “The Trust is dedicated to providing the highest quality services for all the patients and service users in its care, offering holistic and recreational activities on a daily basis,” the spokesperson stated. “We remain in regular contact with families to ensure they are kept informed of our efforts to find the most suitable care setting for their loved one.”