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Summary of report content

Healthwatch Bexley, Lewisham and Greenwich supported the Big Health Day which was aimed at residents with learning disabilities, their families and carers, in Bexley, Greenwich and Lewisham on 25 October 2019. They used the opportunity to explore the experience of people with learning disabilities in relation to their mental health.  They engaged with 51 respondents in the form of a short questionnaire (38 completed) and a focus group (13 attendees).

Most of the people who took part were happy with the services they receive, although they revealed that not all services met their needs, and some were difficult to access. Many of the residents with learning disabilities told Healthwatch they experienced poor mental health and seeing their GP was the main source of support when feeling low. Many tried to keep themselves as mentally well as possible by spending time with family and friends or taking part in leisure of fun activities. People wanted to be better supported to make healthy life choices. This included more accessible information on how to stay healthy and what leisure and volunteering opportunities are available. A smaller number siad they did not always feel understood by healthcare services.

The report included 8 recommendations about the support provided to people with learning disabilities by health and care services, how to communicate with people with learning disabilities, raising awareness of leisure, continuity of care, the need for reasonable adjustments and access to advice.

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20200326_Bexley, Lewisham, Greenwich_snap shot study looking after your mental health.pdf