The Belfast Health Trust has apologised to a 29-year-old man with severe learning difficulties after sending him a letter about a review of his domiciliary care package. Aaron Brown, who cannot communicate verbally and receives round-the-clock support, lives in a community facility after transfer from Muckamore Abbey Hospital six years ago.

His father, Glynn Brown, raised concerns over the involvement of Liaison Care, an English-based private consultancy, in reviewing care packages for patients transferred from Muckamore. The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority inspected Aaron's care, provided by Praxis in Lisburn, shortly before the letter. The RQIA report described the care as safe, effective and compassionate.

Glynn Brown stated that Aaron is thriving in his current arrangement. He questioned the need for Liaison Care's reviews given the RQIA's existing role in inspecting health and social care services in Northern Ireland.

The Belfast Health Trust confirmed it commissioned Liaison Care to review care plans for patients with complex needs. The trust said the private consultancy offers specialised reassurance and ensures plans meet individual requirements while complying with data protection rules.

The RQIA stated it has no involvement with Liaison Care and has contacted the Belfast Trust and Department of Health to clarify the company's work.

Pauline Shepherd, chief executive of Independent Health Care Providers in Northern Ireland, reported distress among families receiving such review letters. Families contacted her about potential changes to domiciliary and care home packages.

DUP MLA Diane Dodds, a member of the Stormont Health Committee, called the arrangement a duplication of costs, especially after positive RQIA reports.