Last week was Learning Disability Awareness Week. This year, the theme was “Do you see me?” focusing on the everyday challenges that people with learning disabilities face.
Founded by Mencap, this annual event challenges stigma and celebrates the amazing things that people with learning disabilities are capable of.
With learning disabilities affecting 1.5 million people in the United Kingdom, it is important to ensure that they have the right support to live life as they choose.
Living with a learning disability
For most people with a learning disability, they will have received a diagnosis during childhood. Whilst each learning disability is unique, it can be characterised by the way that it impacts the lives of those who have it.
Learning disabilities can change the way that people see the world. This means that sometimes people will have trouble adapting to new situations and communicating. They may also take longer to learn and process things, which means that they will often need adaptations and extra support.
Things that neurotypical people take advantage of can also be difficult for those with learning disabilities. For example, in the UK, only 26.7 per cent of adults with a learning disability are employed. Out of those who are unemployed, 86 per cent would like to be in paid employment.
It is important to identify ways in which we can support people with learning disabilities to achieve their goals, from having the right care at home to the right accommodation in work environments.
Care and support
Each individual living with a learning disability will have a unique experience. This means they will all have a different level of care and support they need.
Whilst some people may be able to live very independent lives, this is unfortunately not the case for everyone with a learning disability. According to Mencap, over 2,000 people with learning disabilities and/or autistic people are currently in mental health hospitals.
Having the right support at home can ensure that people with learning disabilities do not need to spend longer than necessary in mental health hospitals.
Our staff are trained to help provide bespoke care to your loved ones, no matter what support they require. With the right care plan in place, we work alongside families and friends to ensure that everyone can learn, live, and work as independently as possible.
If you would like to find out more about our services, please contact our team today.