complex needs features

Joanna Grace is a Sensory Engagement and Inclusion Specialist, author, trainer, TEDx speaker, and Founder of The Sensory Projects. Here, she writes for Learning Disability Today about her research examining how we can best use sensory rooms to support people.

In October next year, a new system known as the Liberty Protection Safeguards (LPS) is expected to replace the current Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DOLS). Yo Dunn, who will be speaking at Learning Disability Today London 2019, introduces the new system and highlights what questions remain unanswered.

Child to parent violence is an often overlooked and stigmatised form of family violence. Here, Helen Bonnick, a consultant, speaker, and trainer, tells Learning Disability Today why this phenomenon is likely under-reported and how the whole family can access support.

Should individuals on the autistic spectrum avoid or embrace 'obsessional' activities? 

Having an autistic spectrum disorder, learning disability, or mental health problem should not prohibit someone from enjoying cultural events such as theatre. A playhouse in Nottingham is using theatre to facilitate discussion and tackle stigma.

A straightforward guide for carers, families and friends is shared.

It can go hand-in-hand with physical, financial and sexual abuse and see people victimised by extended families. And new research shows people with learning disabilities may be among the most vulnerable when it comes to forced marriage. Darren Devine reports.

Imagine seeing and tasting a favourite song as well as being drawn to its familiar melody. This is how those with synesthesia — a condition where the senses are joined — can experience the world. Darren Devine reports.

'Tactile communication' represents a valued means of interaction for and with people with complex learning difficulties. So how does it work...?

Children with complex health needs or who are dependent on medical technology and their families want to lead as ordinary a life as possible, but find many barriers to achieving this. However, they can be broken down through adaptations and using different funding models By Jill Davies, research programme manager at the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities

Specialised equipment can substantially improve a person with complex healthcare needs’ quality of life, but getting the right pieces is not always easy, as Anna Waugh explains

Doreen and Maggie are best friends and have just moved into their first home together at the ages of 80 and 77 respectively. This huge step has made a massive difference in their lives and they are now planning to put their stamp on their new place. Sinead McHugh-Hicks shares their story.

Sam Sly considers two contrasting stories of young people with learning disabilities in institutions with a label of challenging behaviour.

Sensory stories can be an important way to provide vital sensory stimulation for children with profound and multiple learning disabilities, as Joanna Grace explains

A national project is helping young people with learning disabilities or communication difficulties who are at risk of offending to enhance their life chances. Katy Palmer reports