Adults with Learning Difficulties in England 2003/2004

Publication date

September 28, 2005

Key facts

One in six people with learning difficulties who were of 'working age' (17%) had a paid job. Generally in the UK, 67% of men and 53% of women of 'working age' have paid jobs.

Nearly three in four people (72%) had been to a special school. One in ten (10%) had been to a special unit in a mainstream school. Less than one in five (18%) had been to ordinary classes in a mainstream school.

One in three people (32%) said they did not feel safe either in their homes, in their local area or when using public transport.

85% of people said that their health was 'good or very good.

ISBN Reference: ISBN 1-84636-022-6

Summary

This is the first ever national survey about the lives of people with learning difficulties in England. It is the first time that this type of survey has been carried out anywhere in the world.

The survey tells us how much more needs to be done if people with learning difficulties are to be more included and to have a better life. It fulfils a Government promise (Valuing People, a White Paper 2001) to help people to live full and independent lives as part of their local communities.