Autistic man 'institutionalised' after six years in hospital
Mr Gunn, who is 27, has been in hospital since March 2018
- Published
A man, who is autistic and has learning difficulties, has become institutionalised after spending over six years in a Western Trust hospital, his mother has said.
Liam Gunn, 27, went to hospital for a three-month planned admission on 23 March 2018 but has not been discharged as suitable accommodation for him cannot be found.
On Wednesday, BBC News NI revealed that 22 people in adult mental health hospitals could be discharged but have nowhere to go.
The Western Trust said it remained committed to "working with partner agencies to help identify the most suitable supported living accommodation and placements for individuals with complex and challenging needs".
Mr Gunn's mum, Ammie Storey, said she has met with the trust many times but no progress seems to have been made.
"I don't think the trust has explored suitable options for Liam," she said.
Ms Storey also said the long stay has had a "very dramatic effect" on her son.
"He's become institutionalised, he has lost his sparkle," she said.
"He doesn't understand why he is there or what's happening."
Speaking to Evening Extra, Ms Storey said her son had begun to self harm.
"He bangs his head, he picks his skin. He's just very distressed."
Ms Storey hopes her son will be placed somewhere close to his family
"I would hope that the trust does the right thing by Liam and returns him back close to his family," she added.
"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 spokesperson for the Western Health and Social Care Trust said it remained in regular contact 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.
"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."