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S4C

Learning Disability

Learning disabilities cover different intellectual disabilities, but basically the term means that a person’s ability to learn is affected and that they may not learn things as quickly as other people. This is not an illness, and people usually have this condition from birth or early childhood. It can be categorised as mild, moderate or severe.

People with a learning disability vary a great deal in the help they may need, and whilst some need help with washing and dressing for example, others will live quite independently with much less support.

With profound learning disability, behaviour can be challenging. Other factors such as sight or hearing difficulties, autism, mental illness or other health problems might play a role in the support they need.

All of the organisations listed here regard people with learning disabilities as full members of society and try to foster support for positive social attitudes to enable them to reach their potential.

Useful contacts

  • Antur Waunfawr

    A succsessful social enterprise which provides employment and training opportunities for people with learning disabilities in their own community, as well as being a key player in the regeneration of the local economy.

  • Conwy Connect

    Help and support for those withlearning disabilities in the Conwy area.

  • Swansea Lives

    Help and support services for those with learning difficualties in the Swansea area.

  • Mencap Cymru

    With over 26 support groups across Wales, Mencap provides a lot of help for those with learning disabilities and their families. Support of all kinds for those wanting to live more independent lives.

    • Telephone: 0808 808 1111 (10am-6pm, Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm weekends & bank holidays)
    • Visit website
  • Welsh Dyslexia Project

    The Project gives bilingual advice and support to dyslexic individuals in Wales who might have difficulties in either Welsh or English. They are looking for volunteers for the helpline and other activities.

  • Perthyn

    Supported living services for those with learning difficulties across South and West Wales.

  • Cartrefi Cymru

    One of the largest organisations in Wales offering supported care.

  • Learning Disabilities Wales

    An umbrella body which links many learning disabilities organisations in Wales, providing information, support and training.

  • Carers Wales

    This organisation offers advice and support to carers in Wales, and also campigns on behalf of carers' rights across the country. Contact them about any aspect of caring for others, from where to get financial help to your local services.

    • Telephone: 0808 808 7777 (10am-12pm & 2pm-4pm, Wednesday & Thursday)
    • Visit website
  • Foundation for People with Learning Difficulties

    The foundation works with people with learning disabilities, their families and the people who support them.