A learning disability is more common than you think

Learning disability is one of the most common forms of disability in the UK.

People often find it confusing to fully understand what it means to have a “learning disability”.

Having a learning disability is a life-long condition, acquired before, during or soon after birth, which affects an individual’s ability to learn.  The causes of many learning disabilities are not known, but the most common example is Down’s Syndrome.

It is estimated that 1,200,000 people have a learning disability in the UK, which is approximately 2% of the population.

People with a learning disability are individuals in their own right with unique personalities, likes and dislikes, goals and aspirations.  They live where you and I live, share the same streets, shops, pubs, buses and trains.  Some live with their family whilst others live in a residential home or in supported living accommodation in the community. Many now are able to live independently in their own house or flat.

There are also many forms of physical disability from Cerebral Palsy to people who are elderly suffering the after affects of a stroke, people who have been involved in an accident and have been left in a wheelchair or with another form of disability. You could be partially sighted, blind or deaf or just suffering the affects of old age.

MRCT always promotes ABILITY not disability in all of its work in the community with people with learning and / or physical disabilities.

Any form of disability does not prevent someone from learning and achieving a lot in their life, if given the right encouragement and support.

Find out more about us and our core values

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A personal experience of disability

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