A learning disability is a lifelong condition that affects how a person learns new things.
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty because the latter does not affect general intellect. A learning disability is reduced intellectual ability and difficulty with everyday activities. It is possible for a person to have both a learning disability and a learning difficulty.
A learning difficulty is a type of Special Educational Need (SEN) that affects areas of learning, such as reading, writing, spelling, mathematics etc. There are different levels of learning difficulties and specific types such as dyslexia, dyspraxia dyscalculia and dysgraphia – sometimes known as The Four D’s. DLD or Developmental Language Disorder is another example, where children have long-term challenges talking and/or understanding words.
You can read more about learning disability on the NHS website.
To request support from us:
If you wish to request support from us, we first need to assess your needs and financial eligibility.
See: Getting in contact to discuss your needs
Please note - paying for social care
It's important to understand that social care from any local authority, unlike the NHS, is not free. Please read more about what you might need to pay and make sure you're aware of this before requesting or agreeing to any services.
Specialist support
After a care assessment, our specialist team that supports adults with learning disability is the adult learning disability and autism service (ALDAS).
ALDAS works alongside West London NHS Trust, which also specialises in supporting people with a learning disability. See: West London NHS Trust website - Adult learning disability health team.
Other support
- Our Community Provisions team provides support to adults with a disability.
- Community access service: Provides a wide range of community-based activities and projects for residents with mild-to-moderate learning disabilities and autism.
- Travel training service: For support to help your travel more confidently.
- Employment opportunities service: Help to find and retain paid employment.
- Prevention, transition and development service: Supports adults with learning disabilities and autism to identify, source and access activities that help them overcome barriers.
- Harlington Care runs an online learning disability support group for carers on behalf of Hounslow Council. See: Carer support groups
- Hounslow Reach - 'Floating support': Assists Hounslow residents, aged 18 and over, who may have mental or physical health needs, or a learning disability.
Other organisations that can offer information, advice and support include:
