The reasons for this are complex – people with learning disabilities experience a higher level of discrimination, stigma, exclusion, loneliness, bullying and hate crime.
People with learning disabilities are at much greater risk of mental health problems than the rest of the population in the UK. It’s estimated that 54% of people with learning disabilities also have a mental health problem such as depression
Another of the key factors is employment. Despite most people with learning disabilities being willing and able to work, just 5.8% of them have a paid job. If we solve this, we can go a long way to improving the mental health of people with learning disabilities generally.
We know that with the right support, people with learning disabilities make hardworking and enthusiastic employees, bringing new skills, talents and perspectives to their employers. It is welcome that successive governments have shown interest in trying to improve the situation.
Disabilities and mental health. 