Every day, our specially trained learning disabilities teams advocate for the people we support in many areas of daily life. Breaking down barriers and stamping out stigmas, they ensure the people we support are treated as valued members of their communities.
From accessing activities to embracing work opportunities and going on holiday, there are many areas where people with a learning disability face challenges, and this includes access to adequate healthcare.
Whether they have physical or mental health needs, many people with a learning disability suffer health inequalities. These inequalities arise for a range of reasons, including limited access to healthcare resources, inaccessible information, and social anxiety.
Through our person-centred support, we work to reduce health inequalities and help to ensure that everyone has equal access to the healthcare they need.
Rupert, Gary, and Mubeen are just some of the people we support who have faced health-related challenges. But with our specialist learning disabilities support, they’ve overcome them.
Read their incredible stories below to learn how we help them manage their conditions every day, so they can focus on living healthy, happy, and fulfilling lives.
Rupert’s story
When Rupert developed serious tummy problems, his support team quickly helped him get the medical care he needed, including surgery for a stoma. They used easy to understand tools and lots of encouragement to help him feel confident throughout.
Adjusting to new diet changes and lifestyle challenges, Rupert learned new cooking skills and continued gardening with adapted tools. With ongoing support, he’s living life to the fullest, doing what he loves every day.
Gary’s story
Gary joined Woodham Lodge after struggling with anxiety, depression, and losing his appetite. His weight dropped, and many misunderstood his behaviour. But his new support team saw beyond this and worked closely with him to understand his feelings.
With person-centred care, consistent routines, and medication adjustments, Gary began to feel secure again. His mood improved, his appetite returned, and he’s now enjoying meals and time with his family. Every day, Gary’s team supports him on his ongoing journey to better mental and physical health.
Mubeen’s story
Mubeen, a young man with complex needs including cerebral palsy and blindness, relies on a feeding tube for nutrition. After serious health challenges, he found expert support at Cranmer Day Centre, where the team quickly trained to manage his care with compassion and skill.
With careful daily support, Mubeen stays healthy and enjoys activities he loves, like community outings and sensory sessions. Thanks to this personalised care, Mubeen is happier, more settled, and thriving every day.
Find out more!
As part of our specialist learning disabilities support, we advocate for the people we support, ensuring they have equal access to fair, adequate health care. Learn more about our approach on our dedicated learning disabilities page.
Here you can read the latest news, blog posts and views from our staff, the people we support and their families at our services across the UK.
