New resource to support understanding of learning disabilities across the workforce
People with learning disabilities experience some of the greatest physical and mental health inequalities in our society.
Health care staff in all settings, as well as staff across social care have a role in reducing these inequalities.
Essentials of Learning Disability is a new learning resource developed by NES Psychology, which aims to establish a strong foundation for understanding the needs and experiences of people with learning disabilities, aimed at the whole health and social care workforce.
Designed to be flexible to meet learners’ needs, the resource consists of clusters of short learning modules around a range of topics.
The first phase of these includes eighteen modules, with topics such as:
- What is a learning disability?
- Stigma and society
- Common health conditions
- Sensory processing
- Psychological wellbeing
Each module provides accessible and interactive learning, including videos and case studies to encourage reflection. Modules should take between 30-50 minutes to complete depending on the topic.
While some elements may be considered essential for everyone, other topics offer more specific learning in key areas. Learners, service managers and organisations can select the topics most relevant to their needs, and the resource is designed to be useful to staff in a range of roles, for example those who provide direct care to people with learning disabilities, those working in specialist services, and staff in primary care or acute services.
These eighteen modules are the first part in what is aimed to be a comprehensive introduction for everyone working with or supporting someone with a learning disability. New modules will be developed on an ongoing basis in partnership with experts by experience, as well as in collaboration with colleagues across services.
Dr Jill Jones, Head of Programme for Learning Disabilities, NES Psychology said:
"We are delighted that we have been able to produce this resource for the health and social care workforce. People with learning disabilities have some of the greatest health inequalities, including many which are preventable. Being able to access education and training is a key part of changing these, and our team is committed to continuing to develop this training to ensure people with learning disabilities can live longer, healthier, happier lives"
Essentials of Learning Disability is available now on Turas Learn.
June, 24 2024