Support to help adults with a learning disability live independently, feel safe, and be active members of their community.
Living as independently as possible
Support can help with everyday tasks such as managing a home, shopping, cooking, budgeting, and building routines and independent living skills. This support is personalised, flexible and designed around the person's own goals and preferences.
Some people may receive housing‑related support to help them live well in their own home. Information about practical support options is available through Support at home, with guidance on how to request support or an assessment provided via Accessing care.
Day opportunities and meaningful activity
Many adults with a learning disability choose to take part in day opportunities that support wellbeing, independence and social connection.
These opportunities can include:
- group activities and social programmes
- skill‑building and confidence‑building activities
- meaningful daytime routines
- community‑based activities and initiatives
The right option will differ from person to person, and support should be flexible and focused on what matters to the individual.
Getting out and about safely
Being able to travel confidently and independently can open up access to work, learning, social activities and everyday life.
Some adults with a learning disability choose to develop their travel skills with support, such as learning how to plan journeys, use public transport and travel safely in the community. This may include access to independent travel training, with information sometimes available in Easy Read formats, please take a look at the Easy Read Guide on Easy Read Independent Travel Training (PDF, 2 MB).
There is also wider support available to make travelling easier, including:
- Free bus travel in Scotland for eligible disabled people
- The Thistle Assistance Card, which discreetly lets transport staff know you may need extra help
- Journey planning tools such as the ScotTalk app by Traveline Scotland
- Support through the Blue Badge scheme, which helps people with severe mobility issues park closer to services
Alternative ways of living and support
Some people may choose alternative models of support that offer a more personal or relationship‑based approach.
The Shared Lives service is one option offered through The Richmond Fellowship, where people are supported to live with or alongside approved carers in a shared home environment. This can suit people who want a family‑based setting rather than more traditional care arrangements.
Any decision about living arrangements should be based on individual choice, needs and circumstances.
Feeling safe, confident and supported
Everyone has the right to feel safe and protected from harm.
Adults with a learning disability in Perth and Kinross are supported through partnership working with services such as health, social care, the police and the voluntary sector. If there are concerns about safety or wellbeing, information about how these are responded to is available through Adult support and protection.
Support also aims to help people feel confident and safe when out in their community.
Housing and care options
People with a learning disability live in a wide range of settings. While many people live independently or with support in the community, some may live in care settings depending on their needs and choices.
The right option should always:
- respect the person's rights and preferences
- promote independence and wellbeing
- be reviewed as needs change over time
Information about different support and care options can be explored through Accessing care.
