Learning Disabilities

At Northern Healthcare, we provide specialist supported living for people living with mental health conditions, a mild learning disability or difficulty and/or autism.

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About

Our clinically informed teams provide behavioural and emotional support, and they are flexible in their approach. We find the right tools to support each individual with learning disabilities, empowering them to lead meaningful, fulfilled lives and to achieve their goals.

We work closely with external professionals to devise bespoke communication tools for those who may have difficulties processing information.

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Learning Disability Support

We support all people living with learning disabilities to take small steps in the right direction. Our team members are always on hand. Each person we support is able to have daily one-to-one time with a member of our team to help build confidence and establish ongoing social relationships.

We offer:

  • 24-hour support and practical assistance
  • Assessment of ongoing care and support needs
  • Bespoke communication tools, e.g. visual aids, easy-to-read guides, health passports
  • Activity planning
  • Scheduled daily one-to-one time
  • Support with activities of daily living (ADL) skills
  • Community integration support
  • Dedicated key workers
"It is down to being at Olton Grange that I've realised how to cope with my mental health as well as everyday life. Staff have always been brilliant."

Person We Support

Olton Grange

"Thank you all for the support you have provided XX. You’re an amazing team."

Rebecca Lea, Forensic Community Psychiatric Nurse

Montgomery House

"I can't thank you all enough for being there when I needed people like you most!"

Person We Support

Holland House

"Thank you for being so good with my brother. He always looks so happy."

Family Member

Olton Grange

"All the staff are nice, my link worker is like a friend."

Person We Support

Glen Garth House

"I trust the people around me that are always there for me when I need a chat, and since I've been here, I've been getting better and better."

Person We Support

Adamson House

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Our Step-by-Step Process

In order for us to support someone living with a mental health diagnosis or a learning disability at one of our services, we must first receive a referral from a health care professional. This may be a Case Manager, Care Coordinator, Social Worker, Community Learning Disability Team, Commissioner or another mental health care professional.

To progress a referral, we require a completed referral form along with:

  • Current care plan
  • Up-to-date risk assessment
  • Details of any incidents in the last 3 months

If applicable:

  • Latest tribunal report
  • Leave status (if an inpatient)
  • Observation level (if an inpatient)
  • HCR-20

A member of the Northern Healthcare referral team will respond to all referrals within 48 hours. An initial desktop review of the documentation will be completed, and if appropriate, a face-to-face assessment will be arranged within 4 working days. A decision will be provided within 10 working days of the initial referral.

Following the initial desktop review, if appropriate, one of our assessment practitioners will meet with the individual being referred to our services for a face-to-face assessment. This assessment is led by an experienced mental health professional and includes input from the individual, their support staff, care teams and families or carers where appropriate. Clinical records will also be reviewed where applicable.

Following assessment, a written assessment report is shared with the referrer.

This includes:

  • A summary of support needs
  • A care and support plan
  • Recommended support hours
  • Associated costs

Together we will help the individual to make an informed choice about whether coming to a Northern Healthcare service is the right next step for them.

Once a placement is agreed, our team works closely with referrers and hospital wards where relevant to ensure a smooth transition. Where indicated, transition plans are developed with the individual’s wellbeing at the centre, recognising that change can feel significant.

Confirmation of funding is required from the appropriate authority – Integrated Care Board (ICB) or local authority.

Our team supports each person through the transition process at their pace, ensuring coordinated communication between health and social care professionals so support can begin as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Each person has their own individual tenancy with a housing association. We treat all of our services as homes and encourage the people we support to personalise their space as they choose.

We provide clear pathways focused on recovery and rehabilitation, enabling the people we support to work towards their personal goals and reach their full potential.

The people we support are actively involved in their care and support planning and can see evidence of their progress over time during scheduled reviews. Reviewing progress together helps build confidence, sustain motivation, and identify new goals as independence develops.

Not Sure Which Service is For You?

Our referral team is here to help. Get in touch, and we’ll take the time to understand your needs, answer your questions, and guide you toward the most appropriate mental-health supported-living option.

You can also use our Service Finder to explore available services based on where you’re looking for support and the level of care required. With tailored recommendations and clear next steps, it’s a simple way to find the right support quickly and with confidence.