Leeds Parent Carer Forum recently met with the Health Facilitation Team (HFT), part of the Leeds Learning Disability Service, to discuss how families can better access health services and support for young people with a learning disability.
There was a particular focus on Annual Health Checks for young people with a learning disability, which are available from age 14 onward. The team told us that these checks can make a real difference to a child or young person’s wellbeing, supporting better long-term health outcomes – so, they are working to improve uptake and support families through the process.
We’ve summarised some of the key information we were provided with below. If you would like to explore any of the points in more depth, we’ve included useful links to resources and further reading.
We hope this overview of our learnings from the meeting is helpful. Please do check with your GP for further guidance or more specific support, or you can get in touch directly with the Health Facilitation Team – please see contact details in our ‘Helpful Resources’ section below.
Who are the Health Facilitation Team (HFT)?
- The HFT is made up of Learning Disability nurses who support adults and young people with learning disabilities across Leeds.
- They work to improve access to healthcare, ensure reasonable adjustments are made, and support GPs to deliver quality care.
- They offer free ,accessible information to support a person with a learning disability, family and support teams understanding about the annual health check.
- You can learn more about them here: HFT Information Leaflet (PDF)
Why Annual Health Checks Matter
- People with learning disabilities face significant health inequalities and can die, on average, 15-20 years earlier than the general population.
- The Learning Disabilities Mortality Review (LeDeR) Programme was set up to understand why this is, and to improve care outcomes. You can read more here: LeDeR Reports
- Annual Health Checks help detect and prevent problems early, even if a young person seems well.
Who is Eligible?
- Any young person aged 14+ on the Learning Disability Register is entitled to an Annual Health Check.
- This does not include learning difficulties (such as dyslexia), only diagnosed learning disabilities.
- GPs manage the register, so speak to your GP if you believe your child should be added.
- This helpful guide explains who should be on the register: Improving Identification Guide
What to Expect from the Annual Health Check
- Appointments should last at least 30 minutes and cover physical and mental health.
- Families should receive a “Get Checked Out” checklist in advance to help prepare: Checklist Download
- Easy read guides and adjustments can be made to ensure your young person is comfortable.
Helpful Resources:
- Annual Health Check Standards: Did You know? – Easy read flyer
Health Facilitation Team:
If you have any problems accessing an Annual Health Check with the Doctor, please get in touch with the Health Facilitation Team:
Tel: 0113 8555049
Website: www.learningdisabilityservice-leeds.nhs.uk/get-checked-out/
Email: getcheckedout.LYPFT@nhs.net