Learning Disability Register and Annual Health Checks

Mencap's be healthy, be happy, don't miss out video provides more information on joining the learning disability register.

Easy Read Annual Health Check
What is a learning disability register?

This is a list of people with a learning disability.  It is held by your GP practice and helps doctors to provide extra support when you visit.

What extra support can be provided?

By joining the learning disability register, a range of adjustments can be made to meet your individual needs.  This could include for example:

  • extra support when you visit your doctor - including making an appointment
  • support to understand your doctor and your information
  • more time to talk about how you are feeling. 
  • accessible information and appointments to suit.

If you are 14 years or over, you could also get an Annual Health Check.

How do I join?

Tell your GP practice that you have a learning disability. If you are not already on the register, they can arrange for your name to be added.

Who can join the learning disability register?

You can be any age and have any level of disability to join the learning disability register and get extra support. You do not need to be diagnosed with a learning disability to be on the register. It is a good idea for children to join the learning disability register at a young age. This means adjustments and support are put in place before they start using adult services.

What is an annual health check?

An annual health check is for young people aged 14 years upwards with a learning disability at GP surgeries that offer the service.

You can have an Annual Health Check in full if you have been assessed as having:

  • a moderate or severe learning disability
  • profound learning disabilities
  • a mild learning disability and possibly other health needs

 Your doctor will tell you if you are able to have an Annual Health Check.

An annual health check helps you stay well by talking about your health and finding any problems early.  This will help you to get the right care.

You do not have to be ill to have a health check – in fact, most people have their annual health check when they're feeling well.

What if my GP doesn’t offer the annual health check?

Most GP surgeries offer annual health checks to people with a learning disability. However, GP surgeries don't have to offer this service.

If your GP surgery hasn't offered you an annual health check, you can ask them if they could provide one. If they say no, ask your local community learning disability team for advice. They should be able to help you access an annual health check.

Where do I go for more information?

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