Use this page to learn about support for adults with learning disabilities, autism, and sensory impairments such as problems with hearing or vision. Our Learning Disabilities, Autism and Hearing and Vision Service helps people live as independently and confidently as possible in Bath and North East Somerset. Our service is person-centred and tailored to your needs.
What we do
We offer support for adults aged 18 and over who have learning disabilities, autism (including Asperger’s Syndrome), or sensory impairments such as hearing or vision loss. We work with you to identify your strengths and connect you with the right support in your community.
- Stay safe and build independence
- Get help in a crisis for you and your carers
- Assess your needs and create a support plan with you
- Review and update your support plan when your needs change
- Access advice on benefits, housing, employment, education, and training
- Transition from Children’s Services to Adult Services
- Access specialist sensory support, including registration for visual or hearing impairment and support from a Rehabilitation Officer for Visually Impaired adults (ROVI)
- Connect with local support such as the Community Wellbeing Hub, MIND, Village Agents, and the Complex Health Needs Service
Eligibility
You can use this service if you are:
- An adult aged 18 or over, living in Bath and North East Somerset
- Someone with a learning disability, meaning you have difficulty understanding new or complex information and coping independently (this must have started before adulthood and have a lasting effect on development, with an IQ under 70)
- Someone with autism, including Asperger’s Syndrome, and care and support needs under the Care Act 2014
- Someone with a sensory impairment, such as hearing or vision loss, and may need social care support as defined by the Care Act
We also provide information, advice, and transition planning for young people with learning disabilities or autism aged 14–18 (or 16+ for autism), supporting their move from Children’s to Adult Services.
Additional information
We do not provide diagnoses or therapy, but we can guide you to the right service if you are seeking a diagnosis (for example, the Bristol and Bath Autism Spectrum Service via your GP).
How to get help
You can contact the Access, Advice and Information Team by phone, email or online. We accept referrals from you, or your representative and health professionals (for example, GPs).
Contact the Access, Advice and Information Team
• Phone: 01225 394 570
• Email: adultcare_dutyteam@bathnes.gov.uk
• Online: Adult Social Care online portal