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Learning Disabilities Eligibility Criteria for Adult Services
This definition encompasses people with a broad range of disabilities. The presence of a low intelligence quotient, for example an IQ below 70, is not, of itself, a sufficient reason for deciding whether an individual should be provided with additional health and social care support. An assessment of social functioning and communication skills should also be taken into account when determining need. Many people with learning disabilities also have physical and/or sensory impairments. The definition covers adults with autism who also have learning disabilities, but not those with a higher level autistic spectrum disorder who may be of average or even above average intelligence.
Learning Disability Definition:
Learning disability includes the presence of:
A significantly reduced ability to understand new or complex information, to learn new skills (impaired intelligence), with;
A reduced ability to cope independently (impaired social functioning); which started before adulthood, with a lasting effect on development.
The Specialist Learning Disability Service based in Ashton House, proposes to use the following eligibility criteria in order to decide if people are appropriate to receive a service. Given the complexity and subtlety of some of the concepts, it is acknowledged that some referrals that are sign posted towards the service may require an initial screening assessment, to determine intellectual functioning.
Eligibility Criteria
- Aged 18+ and
- IQ of 70 or below, and significant social impairment
Where an individuals IQ is assessed at over 70, but there is evidence of significant social impairment, the Specialist Learning Disability Service will determine whether it is appropriate for the individuals needs to be met from this service, or signpost the service user or referrer to the appropriate agency.
Where there is evidence of significant social impairment, and it can be demonstrated that the service user has a clear legal position in respect of any claim around ordinary residence, services would be considered in line with Fair Access to Care Services (FACS). Having met the eligibility criteria, the individual will then have access to the appropriate services from within the Integrated Specialist Learning Disability Service.