Published: November 2024, Last Updated: November 2024
Introduction
A learning disability is defined by the UK Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) as ‘A significantly reduced ability to understand new or complex information, to learn new skills (impaired intelligence), with a reduced ability to cope independently (impaired social functioning), which started before adulthood‘. It is a lifelong condition and can be experienced to a mild, moderate or severe degree.
In many cases no specific cause of disability can be determined. Where causes are identified, they are usually genetic (such as Down’s syndrome), environmental (such as by exposure to drugs or alcohol during pregnancy) or traumatic (such as cases of oxygen deprivation or head trauma).
According to NHS England data, around 0.7% of Wakefield residents have a learning disability.
Health needs of people with learning disabilities
Many people with a learning disability have additional diagnoses which can include autism, cerebral palsy, dementia, Down’s syndrome, other genetic conditions, epilepsy and mental health problems.
Autistic spectrum conditions are commonly associated with learning disabilities. These are developmental and are characterised by difficulties in social interaction, communication and imagination. Around half of people with severe learning disabilities have some kind of autism condition.
People living with learning disabilities can experience significant health and wellbeing inequalities throughout their lives. Data shows that that many people living with a learning disability experience poorer health and have a lower life expectancy than average. For example, they are more likely to experience mental ill health and are more prone to chronic health problems, epilepsy, physical and sensory disabilities.
Someone with a learning disability may have difficulty with everyday activities such as household tasks, socialising or managing money.
Long-term support for people with learning disabilities
Long Term Support (LTS) through Adult Social Care uses strengths-based assessment with the intention of maximising independence, social inclusion and promoting a good quality of life for an individual.
In 2023/24, over 1,000 Wakefield residents accessed long term support for the primary reason of learning disability support (905 aged 18-64 and 140 aged 65+).
References
Department of Health & Social Care (DHSC) (2024), Fingertips: Learning Disability Profile. Link: https://fingertips.phe.org.uk/profile/learning-disabilities
NHS England (2024) Adult Social Care Activity and Finance Report. Link: Adult Social Care Activity and Finance Report – NHS England Digital
Further information and services
Wakefield Council, Adult Social Care Services
Connect to Support Wakefield: Support for Learning Disabilities