Learning Disability JSNA

Evidence base

This section provides links and a brief summary of a robust evidence base. For example, peer-reviewd studies, systematic revies, evaluations of interventions and best practice guidelines from national sources.

Issue number 1 = highest priority
1	Source	NICE
	Title incl. web link	Learning disabilities and behaviour that challenges: service design and delivery Learning disabilities and behaviour that challenges: service design and delivery
	Summary	The report highlights the need for better training for school staff to identify and support children with SEND. Importance of flexible, responsive educational environments and inclusive practices. Challenges faced by families in navigating support systems and accessing timely diagnosis. Children and Young People Promote family-based care and avoid residential placements unless essential. Ensure education, health, and care plans are regularly reviewed. Support transitions and independence development. Staff Skills and Values Staff should be trained, compassionate, and respectful of human rights. Match staff skills to individual needs and provide ongoing supervision. Involve service users in staff recruitment. Implementation Challenges Integration across services is often lacking. Families need better access to support and information. Shifting focus from inpatient to community care requires significant change.
	Source	The Challenging Behaviour Foundation
	Title incl. web link	Early intervention Early intervention - Challenging Behaviour Foundation
	Summary	The “Paving the Way” report and other resources emphasise: Early intervention is crucial for children with learning disabilities who may display challenging behaviour. Timely, coordinated support can reduce the severity and frequency of behaviours and improve quality of life.. Training for health visitors and early years professionals to improve identification and reduce restrictive practices. Key Resources and Initiatives Positive Behaviour Support (PBS): A proactive approach to understanding and addressing challenging behaviour. Focuses on improving life quality rather than just reducing behaviours. Early Positive Approaches to Support (E-PAtS): A programme for families raising young children with learning or developmental disabilities. Developed collaboratively with carers and experts. Paving the Way Project: A three-year initiative showing that local, evidence-based early interventions can prevent crisis situations. Includes guidance on developing effective services and examples of good practice. Changing Conversations – iHV Collaboration: A project with the Institute of Health Visiting to raise awareness of restrictive practices. Included surveys, animations, and workshops to support health visitors and family carers. Support and Guidance Families often struggle to access the right support early enough. The Foundation offers: Information and guidance for carers and professionals. Family Support Service for confidential help. Resources on housing, education, leisure, and rights and advocacy. Policy and Practice NICE guidelines recommend early identification and specialist support. Emphasis on local services, co-production with families, and cross-sector collaboration.
2	Source	University College London (UCL), Faculty of Brain Sciences
	Title incl. web link	STORM Programme – UCL Research on Disability Stigma
	Summary	This research, led by Professor Katrina Scior, focuses on the STORM (Standing Up For Myself) programme—a psychosocial group intervention designed to help people with intellectual disabilities manage and resist stigma. The intervention uses cognitive behavioural and narrative approaches and is currently being adapted for digital delivery in partnership with Mencap and the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities. It is funded by the NIHR and aims to empower individuals through peer support and self-advocacy, promoting social inclusion and resilience
	Source	Social Work Research, Oxford Academic
	Title incl. web link	Systematic Review: Evaluation of Social Interventions with People with Disabilities
	Summary	Published in 2024, this systematic review by Mira-Aladrén et al. examines evaluations of social interventions aimed at people with disabilities, including those with intellectual disabilities. It highlights the importance of community-based interventions and the need for consistent evaluation indicators. The review supports the effectiveness of inclusive, community-focused programmes in enhancing social participation and reducing stigma, aligning with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
3	Source	NHS England
	Title incl. web link	NHS Learning Disability Employment Programme NHS England » NHS Learning Disability Employment Programme
	Summary	The Learning Disability Employment Programme (LDEP) was launched to increase employment opportunities within the NHS. Though now wound down, its legacy includes: Supported internships through initiatives like DFN Project SEARCH and Choices College. Resources for NHS employers to continue inclusive hiring practices. Collaboration with the British Association for Supported Employment to promote job coaching and tailored support.
	Source	Disability Unit, Equality Hub, Department for Work and Pensions, Justin Tomlinson and The Rt Hon Thérèse Coffey (UK Government)
	Title incl. web link	National Disability Strategy National Disability Strategy - GOV.UK
	Summary	The National Disability Strategy outlines cross-government actions to improve employment outcomes for disabled people. Key commitments include: Reducing the disability employment gap. Promoting inclusive recruitment and workplace adjustments. Expanding supported internships and apprenticeships. Improving access to careers advice and job support.
4	Source	NICE
	Title incl. web link	Mental health problems in people with learning disabilities: prevention, assessment and management Overview \| Challenging behaviour and learning disabilities: prevention and interventions for people with learning disabilities whose behaviour challenges \| Guidance \| NICE
	Summary	Covers all settings including health, social care, education, and criminal justice. Key Recommendations: Annual GP health checks to identify mental health needs early. Adapted psychological interventions tailored to cognitive and communication needs. Multidisciplinary care planning involving families and carers. Environmental and occupational interventions to support mental wellbeing. Medication management with careful monitoring and review.
	Source	NICE
	Title incl. web link	Learning disabilities and behaviour that challenges: service design and delivery Recommendations \| Learning disabilities and behaviour that challenges: service design and delivery \| Guidance \| NICE
	Summary	Emphasises early identification of risk and proactive support to prevent escalation. Advocates for person-centred care, respecting individuals’ rights and identities. Recommends multi-agency collaboration and strategic commissioning to ensure safeguarding is embedded across services. Encourages involving individuals and families in decisions unless safeguarding concerns prevent it.