Learning disability services

Learning disability services are largely community-based and delivered by multi-disciplinary teams including social workers. Learning disability practitioners working with adults with learning disabilities should always be aware of how this might impact on any children in the family and should give early consideration to the support that parents may need. Where they have any concerns that a child may be at risk of significant harm, they should liaise with colleagues in children's services in line with local child protection procedures. Learning disability practitioners should take account of any wider factors that may affect the family's ability to manage and parent effectively, including strengths within the family in relation to the child's needs. Learning disability practitioners have a potential key role in both adult and child support and protection.