The Dynamic Support Pathway (DSP) provides coordinated support for people with a confirmed diagnosis of Learning Disability, Autism, or both who are experiencing a decline in their mental health or wellbeing while living in the community. Its purpose is to identify early signs of concern, bring involved professionals together, and agree additional support to prevent deterioration, crisis, or hospital admission. Individuals referred must already be supported by health and social care, and the referrer must stay involved throughout. The DSP also supports people stepping down from inpatient units, with multi‑agency meetings used to review and monitor discharge plans.
The pathway applies to both adults and children/young people (CYP), using the same referral process. Young people up to age 25 may also be eligible for a Barnardo’s Key Worker. The DSP is jointly owned by Health, Social Care, and Education, promoting collaborative working and the creation of tailored action plans. It does not replace other referral pathways such as Early Help, SAT, Safeguarding or Social Care.
Eligible individuals must live in Leicester, Leicestershire, or Rutland (LLR), have a confirmed diagnosis, and already be receiving health and social care support. Certain out‑of‑area placements can also be referred when risk levels are high.
Referrals
Referrals to the DSP can be made by any professionals supporting the individual, or alternatively individuals (or a family member, advocate etc.) can now refer themselves to the DSP using the online referral forms on the LLR website
The service operates Monday to Friday within usual working hours and is not available on bank holidays.
Documentation relating to the DSP:
- LDA Support Directory
- Adult DSP referral criteria
- CYP DSP referral criteria
- DSP consent form – easy read
- DSP consent form
- DSP consent form guidance
- DSP first MAM notes template
- DSP follow-up MAM notes template
- DSP post-discharge MAM notes template
- DSP guidance notes for individuals, families and carers
- DSP guidance notes for professionals
- DSP gaps in Service Form
The DSP supports the implementation of our vision for individuals with a learning disability and autistic people across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.
Graphic depicting our our vision for individuals with a learning disability and autistic people across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.