Learning disabilities and autism

In Lancashire and South Cumbria we would like more people with a learning disability, autism or both to live in the community, with the right support, close to home and be able to access healthcare services easily. 

In 2022 we published our learning disability strategy and autism strategies for Lancashire and South Cumbria. These are our ‘big plans’.

Our big plan for autism (all age system autism strategy) says how we want to ensure Lancashire and South Cumbria is a place where autistic people have fulfilling lives.

Our big plan for learning disability (all age system learning disability strategy) says how we want to improve the lives of people with a learning disability in Lancashire and South Cumbria. 

On these pages you will find out more about our work, our services, and our team or find links to support.

A learning disability affects the way a person learns new things throughout their life. A learning disability is different for everyone. No two people are the same. A person with a learning disability might have some difficulty:

  • Understanding complicated information
  • Learning some skills
  • Looking after themselves or living alone

In Lancashire and South Cumbria we want our healthcare services to support people with a learning disability to access health services easily. Doctors and other health workers might be able to tell if a person has a learning disability when they are very young. But some people get a diagnosis later in their lives. This can be when they are adults.

If you are diagnosed with a learning disability, you might be referred to other health professionals to get the support you need.

For more information:  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/learning-disabilities/

More information about learning disabilities including, what support is available, can be found on the Mencap website.

A learning difficulty, such as dyslexia and ADHD, is often confused with learning disabilities. To find out the difference please read the page on learning difficulties by Mencap.

Autistic people may act in a different way to other people. Autistic people may:

  • Find it hard to communicate and interact with other people
  • Find it hard to understand how other people think or feel
  • Find things like bright lights or loud noises overwhelming, stressful or uncomfortable
  • Get anxious or upset about unfamiliar situations and social events
  • Take longer to understand information
  • Do or think the same things over and over

For more information: 

NHS - www.nhs.uk/conditions/autism/what-is-autism/

Autism Research Institute - What is autism


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