Service Description

Supporting people who live with both dementia and a learning disability requires a deeper level of insight, sensitivity, and skill. Cognitive impairment, communication differences, sensory processing needs, and behavioural expressions often overlap — creating a care landscape where small misunderstandings can escalate quickly, and where emotionally intelligent, person‑centred practice makes all the difference. This course helps carers and leaders understand these complexities and respond with clarity, confidence, and compassion. Learners will: - Understand how dementia presents differently in people with learning disabilities, including earlier onset and atypical symptoms - Recognise the overlap between cognitive impairment, communication barriers, and distressed behaviours - Interpret behaviour as communication and respond in ways that reduce fear, frustration, and sensory overload - Understand the perils of diagnostic overshadowing - Use practical de‑escalation and grounding techniques tailored to people with dual diagnoses - Strengthen emotional intelligence and reflective practice when navigating complex behavioural and cognitive needs - Build resilience and confidence when supporting individuals who may struggle to express pain, discomfort, or unmet needs Why it matters People with learning disabilities are at significantly higher risk of developing dementia — often earlier, often with more rapid changes, and often with communication challenges that mask distress. This course equips carers to recognise subtle shifts, prevent escalation, and create environments where individuals feel understood, safe, and valued. Practical details - Booking: As this is a specialist course, we don't offer regular sessions that can be booked online. Please contact us directly to arrange your session - Group size: Maximum of 10 learners for emotional safety and meaningful discussion - Delivery: Microsoft Teams - Scheduling: Weekend and night shift sessions can be offered - Payment: No upfront cost, invoice on completion