by Jenny Heywood

Created on: May 15, 2008   Last Updated: October 13, 2010

I currently work as a support worker in a registered care home for young adults with learning disabilities. I love my job! It is different every day and always interesting. One of the best things about my work is the people I am working with - I find they give me a whole new perspective on my own life and the way I view the world.

Sometimes for my job I visit a day center, where a large number of clients go for various different activities. It is a lovely place, and I always enjoy going there. When I arrive, I am always greeted by a whole load of people, who even when I first started visiting were keen to come and introduce themselves to me. How often does that happen in the outside world?

Life can be confusing and at times, thoroughly scary if you have a learning difficulty. I have seen my clients verbally and physically abused by people who seem intimidated by something they don't understand. Additionally, the clients are extremely vulnerable, and sadly there are many people who will seek to exploit this.

Learning disabilities can come in a variety of different forms. There is no one standard, some people with learning disabilities are extremely able and capable of integrating well into society, others will always need a lot of support. It's important to remember that they are individuals, just like anyone else, having a learning disability doesn't make them all the same. Even within a specific diagnosed condition, there will be wide variations in ability.

Patience is one thing that I think is vital for working with people with learning difficulties. They may struggle with something most people would find simple - and equally they may find simple something that most people would struggle with, that's what I enjoy so much, there are always surprises! Time and patience - as when working with anyone - will get you far.

Liaise closely with anyone who works with the client - they will be able to provide feedback and information which may affect the client. Often there is not an ability to separate different experiences - so something that is affecting them outside of work will come with them into work. Listening and being observant and aware of different behaviors or body language is also helpful.

I think it's great that people with learning difficulties are now treated with care and respect, at least by the law, and able to integrate into society. In my experience they have a lot to offer anyone who is willing to listen and learn. I think it's important to recognize strengths and realize that clients with learning difficulties will have strengths and weaknesses just like any other employee. Don't be intimidated by their condition, just treat them as individuals.

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