The latest LeDer (Learning from Lives and Deaths) report, published last week, highlights the ongoing health inequalities faced by people with a learning disability and autistic people across England. While there are signs of progress, the findings show that too many lives are still being cut short – often for reasons that could have been prevented.
Key findings from the LeDeR report
- Adults with a learning disability die 19.5 years younger than the general population, with an average life expectancy of just 62.5 years.
- 39% of deaths of people with a learning disability were considered avoidable – almost double the rate in the general population (22%).
These stark inequalities show that people with a learning disability and autistic people are still not receiving the healthcare they need.
Care concerns highlighted
The LeDeR report also found worrying gaps in care:
- 37.2% of people experienced delays in care or treatment.
- 36.3% faced problems with organisational systems.
- 28.4% received care that did not follow diagnosis and treatment guidelines.
These figures point to systemic failings, but they also show us where action can make a difference. Sheffield Mencap and Gateway’s health team works closely with GP practices and other healthcare settings across Sheffield to support them to improve the care they provide to learning disability patients. We offer specialist training, resources and adaptations to care pathways that ensure people with a learning disability can receive the healthcare that works for them.
Improving health outcomes: why Annual Health Checks matter
One of the most effective ways to reduce health inequalities is by making sure everyone gets their Annual Health Check at the GP surgery. These are free, once-a-year appointments for anyone over 14 who is on their GP’s Learning Disability Register.
An annual health check can:
- Spot health problems early, before they become serious.
- Make sure essential screenings, checks, and vaccinations are up to date.
- Review medication and treatments to keep them safe and effective.
- Provide space to raise any concerns or worries.
- Ensure reasonable adjustments are in place so care is fully accessible.
Despite their importance, too many people still miss out on their Annual Health Check. When that happens, risks can go unnoticed – leading to preventable health problems and, in some cases, avoidable deaths. Is your Annual Health Check up-to-date?
Improving health outcomes: why vaccinations matter
The LeDeR report revealed that 15% of avoidable deaths among people with a learning disability were caused by flu and pneumonia – both conditions that vaccines can protect against.
Vaccinations are a vital part of staying healthy because they:
- Protect against serious illnesses like flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19.
- Reduce the risk of hospital admissions.
- Help people with weaker immune systems stay safer.
- Protect the wider community, including family and carers.
Everyone with a learning disability is entitled to free vaccinations, but uptake is often low. Making sure you and your loved ones are vaccinated is one of the simplest, most effective ways to prevent illness.
How we can help
At Sheffield Mencap and Gateway, we know that navigating healthcare can feel overwhelming. Our Health Team is here to support you every step of the way. We can:
- Make sure you are on the learning disability register or are recorded as a carer
- Answer any questions you have about Annual Health Checks, vaccinations or other health appointments.
- Book appointments for you at a convenient time and place.
- Support with transport to the appointment.
- Support you during the appointment.
- Set up home visits or online appointments.
- Make sure any reasonable adjustments or extra support are put in place so you feel comfortable.
Find out more about our Health Support Services here or contact us. Together, we can make sure more people with a learning disability live longer, healthier lives.
