Resources
Learn more about learning disabilities, support work and the key words that we use.
What is a learning disability?
A learning disability is a reduced ability to understand new and complex information and a difficulty with everyday activities – for example household tasks, socialising or managing money – which lasts for life. A learning disability begins before adulthood.
Learning disabilities are different for each person. Someone may have a mild, moderate, severe, or profound learning disability. If you have a mild learning disability you may be quite independent and only need help with relatively complicated tasks, such as applying for jobs or filling out forms. On the other hand, people with severe or profound learning disabilities often need 24-hour care and support.
Every person with a learning disability is unique. People with many health conditions, including Williams Syndrome, Fragile X, Down’s Syndrome and others, have learning disabilities.
Glossary
Our glossary contains explanations and descriptions for some of the key terms and phrases used in the world of learning disability to help you navigate and understand the language used.
Our factsheets
At LDN London, we’re committed to helping learning disabled Londoners stay healthy, safe,and live well as equal citizens. To support this vision in everyday practice, we’re launching a new series of Fact Sheets.
These concise, practical guides highlight the key principles of high-quality support. Designed as quick, accessible reference tools, they build on existing knowledge to help ensure best practice in daily work.
By embedding these principles into our routines, we empower teams to deliver consistent, confident, and exceptional care. This approach supports both better outcomes for the people we support and ongoing professional development.
This is just the start — more Fact Sheets will follow, and we look forward to sharing them with you.
Factsheet 1
Active Support is a model which focuses on the principles that all our interactions with the people we support are based on ‘doing with not for’, no matter the level of their disability.
Factsheet 2
A Total Communication approach
uses all available methods, including
speech, sign language, and objects,
to ensure effective and inclusive
communication.
Factsheet 3
What are objects of reference?
Objects of reference are tangible items used to represent specific people, activities, places, or events. They are tools to aid understanding and communication.
Factsheet 4
The role of a Keyworker, also known as Linkworker, is a professional point of contact for the people we support.
The responsibility of a Keyworker is to monitor, feedback, follow up and consider all aspects of the person’s life.
Factsheet 5
The way we talk with and write about people is central to our values in that people with learning disabilities should be treated with respect, dignity and receive the support they need.
Factsheet 6
At LDN London, Values into Practice means living our values in every moment and not just talking about them. Every interaction is a chance to show respect, offer choice and build inclusion and purpose.
Factsheet 7
The REACH Standards are a set of voluntary standards that provide a comprehensive set of principles designed to empower people with learning disabilities and or autism to live meaningful, ordinary lives.
Factsheet 8
Keeping It Local is how LDN London turns everyday choices into stronger, fairer, and greener communities. When we keep it local, the people we support gain more than goods or services.
Factsheet 9
Co-production is more than consultation. It means working alongside people with lived experience. At LDN London, co-production is a way of thinking, planning, delivering and improving everything we do.
