Learning disabilities

The service is for adults aged 18 and over who: 

• have a learning disability
• have difficulty accessing mainstream services, or need a more specialist support

What is a learning disability?

This is a significant, lifelong condition with three criteria:

1. a reduced ability to understand new or complex information or to learn new skills, in global rather than specific areas (impaired intelligence defined as an IQ below 70)
2. a reduced ability to cope independently (impaired social and adaptive functioning)
3. onset before adulthood (before the age of 18) with a lasting effect on development

All three criteria must be present for a person to be considered to have a learning disability.

Existing evidence, or evidence gathered during initial assessments by the Learning Disability Team should also show that the person has had, or is likely to have, significant difficulties accessing mainstream or non learning disability specialist services.

Other learning difficulties

This definition of learning disability does not include people with specific learning difficulties such as:

• dyslexia or dsypraxia
• autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) without a learning disability
• learning difficulties arising from sensory impairment
• brain injury that takes place after the age of 18

How do I get a service?

• anyone can make a referral to the Learning Disability Service
• all referrals will be looked at by the appropriate team
• we will get in touch to tell you if your referral has been accepted or rejected. You will be told if you are placed on a waiting list.