Learning Disabilities & Young People Support

Supporting Learning Disabilities, Children & Young Adults

At John Hampden Surgery, we are committed to providing inclusive, accessible healthcare for patients with learning disabilities, as well as children and young adults transitioning into adult healthcare services.

We aim to make healthcare easier to understand, more comfortable to access, and tailored to individual needs through reasonable adjustments and personalised support.

 

Learning Disability Support

Patients with a learning disability may benefit from additional support when accessing healthcare. Our team works closely with patients, carers and families to ensure appointments are accessible, supportive and focused on what matters most to the individual.

Annual Learning Disability Reviews

Patients on the Learning Disability Register are personally invited to attend a yearly health review by our Learning Disability Champion.

These reviews:

  • Are carried out face-to-face where possible

  • Can be arranged at quieter times if preferred

  • May be supported at home where reasonable adjustments are required

  • Focus on the patient’s health, wellbeing and personal goals

Patients receive an easy-read Annual Review Plan before their appointment, allowing time to think about what is important to them.

Following the appointment, patients are provided with an easy-read care plan to support ongoing health and wellbeing.

 

Reasonable Adjustments

We aim to make appointments accessible and can offer:

  • Quiet or longer appointments

  • Clear and easy-to-understand communication

  • Support for carers or family members attending

  • Flexible appointment arrangements where appropriate

Please let reception know if you require any adjustments.

 

Flu Vaccination

Flu vaccination is especially important for patients with learning disabilities. Eligible patients are invited each year, and we strongly encourage attendance to help protect against serious illness.

Learning Disability Passport (In Development)

We are currently developing a Learning Disability Passport to help patients share important information about their needs, preferences and communication styles with healthcare professionals.

Preparing for Your Appointment

We are developing a visual patient journey to help explain what happens during a Learning Disability Annual Review, helping patients feel prepared and confident when attending the surgery.

👩‍⚕️ Children & Young Adults

We support young people in developing confidence managing their own health as they transition into adult healthcare services.

Vaccinations

We encourage uptake of all recommended vaccinations, including:

  • HPV vaccination

  • Routine childhood and adolescent immunisations

Sexual Health & Screening

Young people can access:

  • Chlamydia testing

  • Sexual health advice and signposting to local services

All consultations are confidential.

Smoking & Vaping Support

Advice and support are available for young people who wish to stop smoking or vaping. Please speak to reception or a clinician for support.

Mental Health Support

Young people can access support through:

  • GP appointments

  • Self-referral mental health services (including CAMHS)

  • Online wellbeing platforms such as Kooth

📘 Easy Read Information

We provide easy-read guides to help patients better understand their healthcare, including:

  • Bowel screening

  • Breast screening

  • Cervical screening

  • Online services

  • Three Questions for Better Health

 

Our Learning Disability Champion

John Hampden Surgery has a dedicated Learning Disability Champion who helps ensure patients with learning disabilities receive the support they need when accessing healthcare.

The Learning Disability Champion:

  • Coordinates annual Learning Disability health reviews

  • Supports patients and carers before, during and after appointments

  • Helps arrange reasonable adjustments where needed

  • Works with the practice team to improve accessibility and patient experience

  • Links patients with local support services where appropriate

You can learn more about the roles within our practice on our Get to Know Our Champions page. (Link to be added)

If you would like additional support, please contact reception and we will be happy to help.

Page last reviewed: 16 February 2026
Page created: 16 February 2026