Addressing health inequalities for people with learning disabilities in NHS England through legal reform

Shah, Selen Rana (2026) Addressing health inequalities for people with learning disabilities in NHS England through legal reform. LL.M(R) thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

This thesis examines the health inequalities experienced by people with learning disabilities in NHS England and considers legal reforms to address these disparities. It builds on a body of reports in England demonstrating that people with learning disabilities have shorter life expectancies and are more likely to die from avoidable causes, with these outcomes linked to poor quality health and social care provision. The thesis argues that the current equality framework under the Equality Act 2010 is inadequate to address these inequalities. In particular, it contends that the framework remains grounded in a predominantly medicalised conception of disability and fails to reflect a substantive equality model.

In examining this issue, the thesis adopts a doctrinal and theoretical approach to analyse the current equality framework in England, drawing on theoretical frameworks of disability and equality. It draws upon interdisciplinary sources, including medical research, public health data, qualitative research, reports by disability organisations, and public inquiries documenting the experiences of people with learning disabilities and their families when accessing healthcare.

In examining this issue, the thesis adopts a doctrinal and theoretical approach to analyse the current equality framework in England, drawing on theoretical frameworks of disability and equality. It draws upon interdisciplinary sources, including medical research, public health data, qualitative research, reports by disability organisations, and public inquiries documenting the experiences of people with learning disabilities and their families when accessing healthcare.

These reforms aim to reduce the health inequalities experienced by people with learning disabilities, particularly premature and avoidable deaths, while also improving access to and experiences of care. The recommendations, therefore, focus on developing a healthcare system that recognises and respects the inherent dignity and human rights of people with learning disabilities.

• Item Type: Thesis (LL.M(R))
• Qualification Level: Masters
• Subjects: K Law > K Law (General); R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine
• Colleges/Schools: College of Social Sciences > School of Law
• Supervisor's Name: Busby, Professor Nicole
• Date of Award: 2026
• Depositing User: Theses Team
• Unique ID: glathesis:2026-86220
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 09 Sep 2026 15:41
• Last Modified: 09 Sep 2026 15:42
• Thesis DOI: 10.5525/gla.thesis.86220
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/86220