Getting help

If you are a person with a learning disability, a family member, friend or carer, you may want to speak to someone to get information and support.

There are a range of people you can talk to and there are a number of services and organisations which can support you.

To talk to someone about physical and mental health issues

Visit your local GP. You can talk to them about physical and / or mental health problems. They will be able to advise you. They will also be able to refer you to specialist services if he / she feels they will help you.

You can also contact your local Community Learning Disabilities Team. You can find out the contact details for your local team from your council or health authority. Find your local council from the A-Z of local councils or your local health authority on the NHS Direct website.

To talk to someone about learning disabilities

You can call Mencap's Learning Disability Helplines. They can give you information on issues like housing, jobs, benefits and local services. Find out the Learning Disability Helpline numbers (England, Northern Ireland and Wales)

The Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities does not have a helpline and unfortunately is unable to respond to individual requests for advice.

Help and information from national and local organisations

Find out about other key organisations offering information and support, including helplines and local services for people with learning disabilities and their carers.

Search our organisation and website directory for local and national organisations which work in learning disabilities.

Search our publications section to find out more about people with learning disabilities, their family members, friends or carers.

Unfortunately, we are unable to respond to student enquiries, but you can find information by asking members of the Choice Forum or by visiting the information section.