Learning disability

A learning disability affects the way a person learns new things in any area of life. For example, it can be difficult for a person with a learning disability to:

  • Understand new things
  • Learn new skills
  • Live independently
  • Communicate with other people

There is a wide range of services available for people with learning disabilities both throughout the borough and nationally. The following organisations offer information and advice about living with a learning disability. They also offer a wide range of services to help ensure that people with learning disabilities live a full and independent life.

Local organisations

Bromley Mencap

It provides information and support on a range of topics including benefits, grants, education, leisure, short breaks, support planning, health transition and housing.

Choice Support

It is a specialist independent charity. That offers a wide range of services supporting children, young people and adults with differing needs. 

Advocacy for All

Provides an advocacy service for people with a learning disability and other groups to make their voice heard.

Bromley Well services for carers

Practical support and information to carers

Deaf Plus

Provides a diverse range of groups and services aimed at supporting independence and empowerment.

Community Learning Disability team

Bromley Community Learning Disability Team (CLDT) provides specialist community health services to local people over the age of 18 with learning disabilities. The team consists of Psychologists, Community Nurses, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Speech and Language Therapists and Psychiatrists.

National organisations

British Institute of Learning Disability BILD

Works to improve the lives of people with learning disabilities and family carers

AccessAble - Accessible venues guide

Transport for All  - travel support card

Transport for London has produced a Travel Support Card for people with hidden disabilities to help them use public transport more easily. Showing the care will alert members of staff on Buses, DLR, London Overground, Tram and Tube that the passenger may need support, information or directing. The wallet sized card is free and has a blank space where you can write down information about the journey and the type of help that may be needed. 

You can order a travel support card by contacting London Travel information on 0843 222 1234.

Shared Lives

The Shared Lives scheme is for vulnerable adults and younger adults who live in the London Borough of Bromley, meet the eligibility criteria to access our services and need support to live independently. This includes:

  • People who have a diagnosed learning disability
  • People with mental health needs 
  • People with general or complex disabilities 

More information about the Shared Lives services in Bromley.