Learning disabilities and other needs

Many people with severe epilepsy have a learning disability or other conditions too. There are many reasons for this that are yet to be fully understood. It is possible that the part of the brain that’s causing the seizures has also caused the learning disability or behavioural issues. Sometimes seizures themselves can damage the brain, and long term use of some medications can slow cognitive processing.

Learning disability affects everyone in a slightly different way. For some people their learning disability is relatively mild, and with appropriate support and encouragement that individual should be able to enjoy a full and varied life.

At the more severe end of the scale, an individual with severe and profound learning disability may need very intense support in almost every aspect of daily living. We provide support at both ends of the spectrum, and all points in between.

Crucially, our philosophy is based on supporting each of our service users to achieve what they can, safely, rather than thinking about what they can’t or shouldn’t be doing. We never compromise safety, but we aim to provide a dynamic living environment for each and every service user.

All of our service users live in everyday community settings, and by assessing risks have the appropriate level of support to help them achieve as much independence as possible.