A new set of healthy living toolkits have been launched today, 19 June 2025, to help support people with learning disabilities to lead healthier and happier lives.
The toolkits, developed by the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR) Learning Disabilities and Autism (LDA) Collaborative, aim to address longstanding health inequalities and improve outcomes for people with learning disabilities through better nutrition, hydration and physical activity. They are launched as part of this week’s Learning Disabilities Week, which this year focuses on ‘Do you see me?’ an opportunity for all people with a learning disability to be seen, heard and valued.
Research shows that people with learning disabilities are significantly more likely to experience health conditions which are linked to factors such as poor nutrition and low levels of physical activity. In Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland, more than one-in-ten (11%) of people with a learning disability are underweight, while one-in-three (33%) are living with obesity.
Noor Al-Refae, a senior strategic dietitian – learning disabilities at Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, developed the toolkits. She said:
“Through my work I’ve listened to the voices of people with lived experience, families, carers, and professionals. A recurring theme from this engagement was the need for a combined resource to bring together key information on healthy living.
“In response the healthy living toolkits were developed. They bring together vital and specific information to support individuals with learning disabilities to live healthier lives and to support the people around them to make that possible.
“The toolkits are available in multiple versions, and the content has been individualised for different groups, such as GP practice staff, care providers, family carers, healthcare professionals, and individuals with learning disabilities. It has been a privilege to lead this work, and I hope these toolkits are a useful resource for communities, services, and individuals alike.
“By equipping people with the right tools and knowledge, we can help prevent avoidable health conditions and support people to live longer, healthier lives.”
The Healthy Living Toolkits provide clear, accessible guidance tailored to three key audiences:
- Health professionals – with role-specific advice on identifying and monitoring concerns.
- Family and friend carers – offering practical tips and nutritional information.
- Individuals with lived experience – empowering people to take an active role in their own health.
The resources also highlight the importance of inclusive community facilities, such as the availability of wheelchair-accessible scales, to ensure accurate health monitoring for all.
The full set of toolkits are now available for free download through the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Health and Wellbeing Partnership website. There are specific versions for:
- People with lived experience: easy read and a standard version
- Family/friend carers
- Adult social care
- Care providers
- GP practice staff
- Other healthcare professionals
The LLR Learning Disability and Autism (LDA) Collaborative is led by Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust and works alongside the LLR Integrated Care Board, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester City Council, Leicestershire County Council, Rutland County Council, as well as the local voluntary sector and primary care services. Working together, the Collaborative’s aim is to transform services to improve outcomes for people with learning disabilities and autistic people in our community.