Learning Disability Awareness Month: How We Support

Every October, Learning Disability Awareness Month offers a vital opportunity to shine a light on the experiences and challenges of people with learning disabilities. For us at Dale Care, we are a domiciliary care provider committed to person-centred support. So, get involved with us this October for Learning Disability Awareness Month.

What Is Learning Disability Awareness Month?

Learning Disability Awareness Month is a time to raise public awareness about learning disabilities, challenge stigma, and promote understanding.

Learning disabilities affect how individuals acquire and process information. They can impact communication, literacy, numeracy and social interaction. Importantly, learning disabilities are not a reflection of intelligence, but they are neurological differences that require understanding, patience, and appropriate support.

Why This Month Matters

For many individuals with learning disabilities, everyday life can present barriers. From accessing healthcare and education to navigating social relationships and employment. Awareness months like this one help tackle those barriers by:

• Educating the public about the realities of living with a learning disability.
• Empowering individuals with learning disabilities to advocate for themselves.
• Encouraging organisations to improve accessibility and inclusivity.
• Highlighting the importance of training for professionals working in health and social care.

At Dale Care, we believe that awareness must lead to action. That’s why we’ve embedded inclusive practices into every aspect of our care delivery.

Our Services for People with Learning Disabilities

As a domiciliary care provider, we support individuals with learning disabilities to live independently and with dignity in their own homes. Our services are designed to be flexible and tailored to each person’s unique needs. Here’s how we make a difference:

1. Person-Centred Care Planning – We work closely with individuals, their families, and healthcare professionals to develop care plans that reflect personal goals, preferences, and communication styles.
2. Support with Daily Living – Our carers assist with tasks such as cooking, cleaning, personal hygiene and medication management. We aim to foster independence while providing reassurance and safety.
3. Social and Emotional Support – Loneliness and isolation can affect people with learning disabilities massively. Our team offers companionship, emotional support, and encouragement to participate in hobbies or social groups.

To learn more about the services we provide, please visit our ‘Services’ page.

Training Our Staff: The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training

One of the most powerful ways we honour Learning Disability Awareness Month is through our commitment to staff training, specifically through the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism.

This training is now the government’s preferred and recommended standard for health and social care staff. It was developed in response to the Health and Care Act 2022, which requires CQC-registered providers to ensure their staff receive appropriate training.

At Dale Care, we ensure all our staff complete the Oliver McGowan training appropriate to their role. This training empowers our team to recognise the signs of distress, adapt communication, and make reasonable adjustments that can prevent harm and promote wellbeing.

To learn more about the training that we provide to our staff, please visit our ‘Careers’ page.

Our Pledge This October

Join us in celebrating neurodiversity and advocating for equity this Learning Disability Awareness Month. Whether it’s attending a local awareness event, sharing educational resources, or simply starting a conversation, every action counts.

Learning Disability Awareness Month is not just about raising awareness, but it is about raising standards. At Dale Care, we’re proud to be part of a movement that centres dignity, empathy, and excellence in care. Through our services and our commitment to the Oliver McGowan training, we’re helping build a future where everyone regardless of ability can thrive.