Learning disabilities report

Learning disability is one of Healthwatch Sheffield's priority topics. They undertook a survey of people with learning disabilities to find out their experience of health and social care.

143 responses were received. The findings of our survey indicate that, in Sheffield, people with a learning disability are generally more satisfied with the availability of appointments and the help or treatment they receive than the general population surveyed in 2014.

However, this report recommends that a number of areas are addressed to improve the help and care that people with learning disability receive from health and social care services.

A number of key themes emerged: The attitude of staff is key to an individual’s experience of using a service. Respondents told Healthwatch Sheffield that their experiences of services could be improved if more health and social care professionals had a better understanding of the needs of people with a learning disability.

Communicating and sharing information effectively is a recurring theme, written materials need to be both appropriate and accessible. Regular two-way communication was important to respondents, including regular social care reviews.

Many people with learning disabilities also have physical disabilities so appropriate access to services is important A calming physical environment is ideal.

This report should inform providers and commissioners of health and social care services in Sheffield, as well as being of interest to the public.