🩺 Supporting Patients with Learning Disabilities & SEND in Primary Care
Quick Guide for GP Practice Staff
💡 Why It Matters
– People with learning disabilities (LD) and SEND experience worse health outcomes and shorter life expectancy.
– GP practices play a vital role in reducing health inequalities through early support, accessible care, and reasonable adjustments.
✅ Key Actions for Your Practice
1. Annual Health Checks
– Ensure patients with LD aged 14+ are invited annually.
– Use the NHS LD Health Check Template (EMIS/SystmOne available).
– Make reasonable adjustments: longer appointments, familiar clinician, etc.
THINK: In what ways do you help ensure that people are appropriately identified and added to the Learning Disability register?
2. Flag and Record
– Use clinical systems to flag LD/SEND status.
– Add alerts for reasonable adjustments or communication needs.
3. Reasonable Adjustments
– Offer:
– Quiet waiting areas
– Easy-read letters
– Carer involvement
– Priority appointments if needed
Here are some other useful guides that can be used for patients:
🔗 Other Recommended Resources
| Resource | Link |
| NHS Annual Health Checks | Harshi’s learning disability annual health check and health action plan |
| Oliver McGowan Training (mandatory) | Bing Videos |
| Easy Read Leaflets & Videos | https://www.easyhealth.org.uk |
| Mencap: Easy Read & Support | https://www.mencap.org.uk |
🧠 Quick Tips for Communication
– Use simple, clear language.
– Speak slowly; allow extra time.
– Confirm understanding—don’t just ask “Do you understand?”
– Use visuals where possible (pictures, diagrams)
📝 Tools to Use
– Hospital Passports
– Health Action Plans