Learning disability and autism

People with a learning disability or autism can access NHS and community support for physical health, mental health, communication, daily living and care planning. This page explains what support is available for children and adults, how to access services, and where to find local help.

Health, wellbeing and community support in Essex

Who is this support for?

This page is for:

  • Children, young people, and adults with a learning disability
  • Autistic people
  • Families, carers, and supporters

Support is personalised and aims to help people live healthy, independent, and fulfilling lives.

Getting help from your GP

Your GP practice is usually the first point of contact.

They can support you with:

  • Annual health checks for people aged 14 and over with a learning disability
  • Reasonable adjustments to make appointments easier
  • Referrals to specialist services
  • Medication reviews
  • Care planning and health action plans

If you need extra support to attend appointments, ask your practice about reasonable adjustments.

Learning disability annual health checks

People aged 14 and over with a learning disability are entitled to a free yearly health check.

These checks help to:

  • Identify health problems early
  • Review medicines
  • Discuss physical and mental wellbeing
  • Plan ongoing care

To access a health check, you must be on your GP practice’s learning disability register.

Speak to your GP if you are unsure whether you or your child is registered.

Further information is available on NHS.UK.

Autism assessment and support

If you are concerned that you or your child may be autistic, you can:

  • Speak to your GP
  • Speak to your child’s school or SENCO
  • Ask about referral and assessment pathways

Support is available before, during, and after assessment.

Useful sources of information include:

Your GP or school can help explain next steps and available services.

Community and social care support

Community services, social care, and voluntary organisations provide practical and emotional support.

This may include help with:

  • Communication and social skills
  • Daily living and independence
  • Accessing activities and groups
  • Family and carer support
  • Employment support for adults
  • Education support for children

You can find local services through:

  • Essex Frontline – directory of community, wellbeing, and support services

Support varies by location. Visit the Your area section of this website to see what is available where you live.

Reasonable adjustments and accessible care

NHS services must make reasonable adjustments to meet your needs.

This may include:

  • Longer appointments
  • Quiet waiting areas
  • Easy-read information
  • Support with communication
  • Flexible booking arrangements

Tell your GP practice or service provider what helps you most.

When should I use another service?

Contact your GP if:

  • You need a health check
  • You want a referral
  • Your health needs have changed

Use NHS 111 if:

  • You need urgent advice
  • You are unsure where to go

Call 999 if:

  • There is an immediate risk to life or safety

Using the right service helps you get timely support.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Not always.

Some support services are available without a formal diagnosis. Your GP, school, or local services can advise what is available.

How do I get on the learning disability register?

No. Health checks are optional, but strongly recommended because they help identify problems early.

Can autistic people get reasonable adjustments without a diagnosis?

Yes. Carers may be entitled to:

  • Help with benefits and employment
  • Advice and training
  • Emotional support
  • A carers’ assessment

Your GP or local council can advise.

What You can raise concerns with the service provider or speak to your GP.

You can also use NHS complaints procedures if needed.

Yes. Services are usually provided locally.

If you move, your GP or current provider can help you transfer to new services.

Further information

National guidance on learning disability and autism support is available on NHS.UK.