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Learning disability
What is a learning disability?
A learning disability is a lifelong condition that affects how a person learns, understands information and carries out everyday activities. It develops before adulthood and has a lasting impact on a person's development.
For example, a person with a learning disability may need support with everyday tasks such as managing money, maintaining a household, travelling independently or building social relationships.
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty. A learning difficulty affects specific areas of learning, like reading (dyslexia), physical coordination, or focus and attention.
Some people with a learning disability may also have neurodevelopmental conditions, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Developmental Coordination Disorder (dyspraxia). These conditions affect how people process information, organise tasks and interact with the world around them. Each person will have their own strengths, abilities and support needs.
People with a learning disability may need additional time and support to learn new skills, understand complex information, communicate their needs and make decisions about their lives. With the right support, people with a learning disability can lead fulfilling and independent lives.
Support organisations
If you or someone you know has a learning disability and would like support with day-to-day life, there are services available to help.
Bexley Twofold is a job search, training and supported employment service for Bexley residents with a learning disability. Their aim is to help people find and sustain paid employment.
Bexley Mencap is a local charity supporting people aged 18 plus with a learning disability and the people who care about them within Bexley. They run a variety of clubs, groups and support services.
Autism
If you have autism, there is support available for you.
Day centres
Day centres in Bexley offer activities, learning and support for people with a learning disability. You can meet new people, try new things and get help with skills like cooking, art, or using a computer.
Education and training
The Learning Enterprise College Bexley (LECB) offer a range of part-time learner-centred courses created specifically to help adults with a learning difficulty and disabilities prepare for work and life.
Help for adults with a learning disability
If you are finding it hard to take care of yourself or do everyday tasks, you can contact us to talk about what help you might need.
We will ask you about the tasks you need support with and how we can assist you.
You can also have someone, like an independent advocate, with you to make sure we understand your needs properly.
Complete a self-assessment
You can fill out a self-assessment online. This lets you explain your situation and discuss your care needs with us, so we can understand your needs and check if you qualify for care.
If you or the person you care for are having trouble filling out the assessment form, you can go to any One Bexley charity or any council-run library and ask about the support available to help you complete the form.
Over the phone assessments are also available, please call our Single Point of Contact team on 020 8303 7777
Good Mental Health
In partnership with Mind in Bexley, Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust, Reinstate and Bexley Mencap, hosted a successful Good Mental Health event on Monday 20 January 2025, at the Civic Offices in Bexleyheath. Inspired by a suggestion from a member of the Learning Disability Partnership Board, the event welcomed over 130 attendees for a day of learning, creativity and connection.
The event aimed to promote positive mental health and provide resources for adults with a learning disability. It focused on having fun while discovering practical ways to maintain mental wellbeing and access support services available in Bexley.
Video created by Mind in Bexley