Scheme to help learning disabled in West Berkshire lead healthier lives

Public health officials in West Berkshire are launching a pilot service to help people with learning disabilities lead a healthy life.

Adults with learning disabilities in the UK face a higher burden of poor health outcomes than their peers, with life expectancy being around 16 years lower.

West Berkshire is no exception, and the public health team is working to develop health improvement offering for this population.

The 12-month pilot service, open to adults with learning disabilities and carers, will focus on balanced diets and being physically active.

The aim is to secure meaningful and well-paid employment for these groups.

They will be reviewing how the public health team can best support the development of council-funded supported employment programmes, working with vulnerable groups and residents to obtain and continue in good quality employment.