E - Learning Platform for Learning Disability Awareness

People with learning disabilities are 58 times more likely to die before the age of 50 than that of the general population; some of these deaths are avoidable (Michael, 2008). Up to one third of people with learning disabilities have epilepsy - 20 times greater than that of the general population, up to one third will have an associated physical disability - commonly Cerebral Palsy - with attendant health challenges that includes; postural deformities, hip dislocation, chest infections; Dysphagia, gastro-oesophageal reflux, constipation and incontinence. Mental ill health is also more common in both adults and children and co-morbid conditions such as Autistic Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder are more common.

The UH have been made aware that some acute general health Trusts within NHS South of England, Dentists, Paramedic Staff and acute mental health Trusts would like the UH to develop a learning resource to augment existing education and training activities. We propose to develop in full collaboration with NHS South of England colleagues, and in full consultation with the expertise of the learning disability liaison nurses an innovative resource.