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Annual health Checks

For people with learning disabilities

Welcome to the RCPA resource page for Annual Health Checks.

This page brings together a range of resources and information to support social care staff, carers, and people with learning disabilities to access high-quality Annual Health Checks (AHCs).

Annual Health Checks are underpinned by 10 Principles, developed by people with learning disabilities in Somerset, which describe how they want to be treated.

Here you will find:

 

Watch the video by learning disabled people in Somerset about the principles that make a good Annual Health Check.

Understanding Annual Health Checks

Annual Health Checks should be offered every year to people aged 14 and over who are on their GP practice learning disability register. They are designed to:

  • Review physical and mental health
  • Identify any unmet health needs
  • Monitor existing conditions
  • Create a personalised Health Action Plan

These checks are essential in improving wellbeing, reducing health inequalities, and ensuring people receive proactive, person-centred care.

Easy Read information is available to help people understand Annual Health Checks and what to expect: Annual Health Checks | Mencap | Easy Read

My Health Check Resources

The My Health Check pre-appointment questionnaires have been developed in Somerset in partnership with people with lived experience of learning disabilities, alongside health and social care professionals.

GP practices should send these questionnaires before the appointment, along with an Easy Read invitation. They are designed to help individuals prepare for their Annual Health Check and can also be used by support staff during this process.

Available versions:

Health Action Plans

A Health Action Plan is an important outcome of an Annual Health Check.

It helps to:

  • Record health needs identified during the check
  • Create actionable goals
  • Clarify who is responsible

Everyone should ask for a Health Action Plan if one is not offered, as it supports ongoing health and wellbeing.

Templates available:

Reasonable Adjustments

Reasonable adjustments are changes that remove barriers and help people with learning disabilities access healthcare fairly and effectively.

Examples include

  • Longer appointments
  • Easy Read information
  • Additional support during visits

Further information: About reasonable adjustments | Mencap | Easy Read

Support for Carers

Carers play a vital role in supporting individuals to:

  • Prepare for their health check
  • Attend appointments
  • Understand outcomes
  • Advocate for their needs

Useful resources:

A helpful factsheet for parents and carers explains GP learning disability registers, Annual Health Checks, and how to support access: Annual Health Check Fact Sheet

Local Learning Disability Services

Local services provide specialist support, guidance, and help individuals access appropriate healthcare.

Community Team for Adults with Learning Disabilities (CTALD)

CTALD, part of Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, supports adults aged 18 and over (with transition support from age 17.5 for those with complex needs).

The team:

  • Supports people who cannot access mainstream services, even with reasonable adjustments
  • Helps services become more inclusive
  • Provides personalised, multi-disciplinary care

For individuals unable to access an Annual Health Check, referrals can be made via:
CTALDHealthReferrals@SomersetFT.nhs.uk

Local Authority and Community Support

Local authorities provide additional support to help people with learning disabilities live well and access services. This may include:

  • Social care support
  • Advocacy
  • Care coordination

Useful links:

Additional Resources

Further materials are available from national organisations to support best practice, including templates, policies and videos.

These resources have been developed by the National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTi) and Skills for Care: Annual Health Check Resources & Guides | NDTi

For further information

Feel free to email us at admin@rcpa.org.uk

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