Information and support to help people stay physically and emotionally well, and access healthcare that works for them.
Accessing healthcare
Adults with a learning disability can access healthcare through the NHS, with support available to help make services more accessible and inclusive.
Healthcare support may involve a range of professionals working together to support physical health, long‑term conditions and communication needs. This can include support from the NHS Tayside Learning Disability Service, alongside mainstream health services such as GPs, dentists and hospitals.
Adults with a learning disability are entitled to annual health checks, which can help identify health issues early and support people to stay well. Information about health checks and common health needs is available through NHS Inform - Learning disabilities.
Some people may need extra support to attend appointments, understand information or communicate their needs. Reasonable adjustments, such as longer appointments or accessible information, can help make healthcare work better for everyone.
Emotional wellbeing and mental health
Emotional wellbeing is just as important as physical health.
Adults with a learning disability may experience stress, anxiety, low mood or loneliness, particularly if they face barriers to communication, inclusion or understanding. Support may focus on building confidence, supporting relationships and helping people feel valued and connected.
Information about mental health support, services and self‑help resources is available through Mental health and wellbeing. Some people may also benefit from community‑based or peer support organisations that promote inclusion and emotional wellbeing.
Keeping active and enjoying life
Staying active and taking part in enjoyable activities can support both physical health and emotional wellbeing. Live Active is a great resource for this.
Adults with a learning disability may choose to take part in:
- sport or physical activity programmes
- walking, swimming or gentle exercise
- creative activities such as music, art or drama
- social and community‑based activities
Local opportunities vary and may be provided by leisure services, community groups and third‑sector organisations across Perth and Kinross.
Friendships, relationships and social connection
Having opportunities to build friendships and social connections is an important part of wellbeing.
Some adults with a learning disability choose to take part in social groups, friendship networks or peer‑support activities that help reduce isolation and build confidence. User‑led or peer‑led organisations, such as PUSH - Community Inclusion Perth, support people to connect with others, have a voice and take part in community life.
Spiritual care and personal wellbeing
For some people, spiritual care or exploring personal beliefs can be an important source of comfort, meaning and wellbeing.
Support may include space to talk about personal values, beliefs or life experiences, and support should respect each individual's wishes, culture and identity. Spiritual care is available to people of all faiths and none.
Specialist and inclusive support
Some people may need more specialist support alongside general health and wellbeing services.
This may include:
- support for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD), including specialist organisations such as PAMIS, which supports people with complex needs and their families
- awareness of how autism may affect health, wellbeing and communication, with support tailored to the individual rather than the label
- support for people with sight or hearing loss, including help to access eye care, hearing services or communication support
Where people have more than one disability or complex needs, services should work together to provide joined‑up, person‑centred support.
When additional support is needed
If health or wellbeing needs change, or if extra support may be helpful, information about how to request an assessment or discuss support options is available through Accessing care. Practical support linked to daily living and wellbeing may also be available through Support at home .
