Hospitals for the disabled

Current policy in the United Kingdom is that disabled people under the age of 65 who require hospital care because of their disability are cared for in hospitals and wards separate from geriatric patients. A number of Young Disabled Units have opened during the past 15 years but have been subject to criticism. This survey suggests that much of the criticism is justified--many units are badly designed, poorly staffed, and have ineffective operational policies. However, some units are attempting to provide a therapeutic and stimulating environment and by emulating them Young Disabled Units may find a useful and uncontroversial role in the spectrum of services for the disabled.