Specialist support available for people with a learning disability

As part of this year’s Learning Disability Week (19–25 June) Dorset HealthCare is reminding local residents about the specialist teams which can support people with a learning disability.

The Learning Disabilities Service includes a wide range of health and social care professionals employed by both the Trust and local councils.

They include learning disability nurses, mental health nurses, occupational therapists, clinical assistants, psychologists, psychiatrists, speech and language therapists and physiotherapists, as well as admin staff.

Carrie Tbaily, who works in the service’s Community Learning Disability Team, said:

“Our service is here to support people with a learning disability living anywhere in Dorset, and ensure they can lead a fulfilling life.

“Our specialist teams work closely with people with learning disabilities, their families, carers and GPs to provide care and support tailored to the needs of every individual.”

Adam Black, 37, from Blandford, has autism. Supported by our adult mental health team since 2009, he has also received specialist help from the Learning Disabilities Service in recent years.

Our community team provides Adam with emotional support around issues connected to his autism, as well as training, advice and guidance for his carers and family members. And our Intensive Support Team has also been helping train a care provider to enable Adam to live in his own flat, with appropriate assistance.

Watch a short clip (below) to learn about things he is proud of, and how he has found working with the service.

The service accepts referrals from anyone – the person themselves, carers, family members or professionals. For Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole residents, contact the referrals team on 01202 123654. For people who live elsewhere in Dorset, contact 01305 221016.

Find out more about Learning Disability Week and the service in Dorset. Easy read information is also available.