A learning disability affects the way someone learns, communicates or does some everyday things. There are many different types of learning disabilities. The learning disability might be hardly noticeable or very severe, and anywhere in between. Some people with a mild learning disability do not need a lot of support in their lives and lead independent lives. Other people may need support with all sorts of things, like getting dressed, going shopping, or managing at home. In the past, there have been many other terms used, such as mental handicap and retardation. Many people find these labels offensive. People often poorly understand what a learning disability is and what it is like to live with a learning disability. As a result people with a learning disability often do not get treated properly.

A learning disability does not stop someone from learning and achieving a lot in life.

Here are some interesting facts about learning disability from MENCAP:

• 1.5 million people in the UK have a learning disability.
• 200 babies are born with a learning disability every week.
• 9 out of 10 people with a learning disability get bullied.
• There are more than 29,000 people with a severe or profound learning disability who live at home with carers aged over 70.

If you are working with people with learning or communication difficulties, a useful resource for providing mental health and legal information is the Talking Mental Health website www.talkingmentalhealth.net

The web resource creates customized mental health information sheets helping you to communicate:

• exactly what someone needs when they need it  
• in simple accessible language  
• using an interpreter