Using a health equality framework to raise wellbeing

The Health Equality Framework (HEF) Atkinson et al¹ is an evidence based outcomes framework that has been systematically developed by four consultant nurses on behalf of the UK learning disabilities consultant nurse network (UKLDCNN). It measures the contribution of nurses and others, in reducing exposure to the known determinants of health inequalities that impact people who have learning disabilities.

The HEF is made up of a number of tools including the eHEF an Excel-based spreadsheet that profiles a person's needs and identifies the impact of health inequalities; the HEF manager - an Excel-based spreadsheet designed to aggregate anonymised data drawn from the eHEF; and a suite of tools for service users, carers, services and commissioners (Box 1).