The Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland (LLR) Learning Disabilities and Autism (LDA) Collaborative has produced a new health toolkit to help people with learning disabilities lead healthier and happier lives.
They aim to address longstanding health inequalities and improve outcomes for people with learning disabilities through better nutrition, hydration and physical activity.
Research shows that people with learning disabilities are significantly more likely to experience health conditions which are linked to factors such as poor nutrition and low levels of physical activity. Physical health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, respiratory conditions, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers, are also more prevalent among individuals with learning disabilities.
In Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland, more than one-in-ten (11%) of people with a learning disability are underweight, while one-in-three (33%) are living with obesity.
Health toolkit can help reduce health inequalities
Noor Al-Refae, a senior strategic dietitian who developed the toolkits, said: “Through my work, I’ve listened to the voices of people with lived experience, families, carers, and professionals. A recurring theme from this engagement was the need for a combined resource to bring together key information on healthy living.
“In response, the healthy living toolkits were developed. The toolkits are available in multiple versions, and the content has been individualised for different groups, such as GP practice staff, care providers, family carers, healthcare professionals, and individuals with learning disabilities. It has been a privilege to lead this work, and I hope these toolkits are a useful resource for communities, services, and individuals alike.
“By equipping people with the right tools and knowledge, we can help prevent avoidable health conditions and support people to live longer, healthier lives.”
Easy read for people with learning disabilities
The Healthy Living Toolkits provide clear, accessible guidance tailored to three key audiences:
The resources also highlight the importance of inclusive community facilities, such as the availability of wheelchair-accessible scales, to ensure accurate health monitoring for all.
The full set of toolkits is now available for free download through the Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland Health and Wellbeing Partnership website. An easy-to-read version is also available.
