Learning Disability JSNA

What is being done and why

Nationally

NHS England’s Learning Disability and Autism Programme focuses on:

  • Helping people live in the community with the right support rather than in hospitals.
  • Improving access to healthcare, including free eye, hearing and dental checks for children in residential special schools.
  • Promoting the STOMP initiative (Stopping Over-Medication of People with a Learning Disability) ensuring appropriate medication use.
  • Encouraging feedback through the Ask Listen Do programme to improve services.

Regionally

The Integrated Care System supports:

  • A needs-led neurodevelopmental pathway for children with ASD and ADHD ensuring tailored support based on individual need.
  • Collaboration between health, education and social care to improve outcomes for neurodiverse children and young people.

Locally

The Learning Disability Plan (2020-2025) outlines:

  • A commitment to the principles of rights, independence, choice and inclusion.
  • Support through the Support Hub, which offers advice, care coordination and access to services for individuals and families.
  • Alignment with national strategies like Valuing People Now and the NHS Long Term Plan, focusing on reducing health inequalities and improving quality of life.

Services:

  • Adult Social Care (Hartlepool Borough Council) – offers support for adults with learning disabilities including care assessments, supported living and day services.
  • Hartlepool Special Needs Support Group – provides short breaks, social activities and support for families of children and young people with learning disabilities.
  • Hartlepool Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice and Support Service – free, confidential and impartial advice for children and young people (0-25) with SEND and their families.
  • Voyage Care, South Highnam – Specialist support for people with learning disabilities and complex needs including supported living and residential care.
  • Dimensions UK – national provider offering support for people with learning disabilities and autism including supported living, short breaks and employment support.