Family support

Mencap's family support service provides flexible support to adults and children with a learning disability, and their families and carers, when it is needed. We know that families need a break from time to time for their own well-being and to be able to carry on supporting and caring.

Reliability and consistency. At Mencap we understand that families want the same person to provide this support. We match resourceful and enthusiastic support workers to individuals and their families. They are carefully selected, experienced and skilled through customised training plans.

Forward thinking and positively planned. To meet the unique needs of individuals and their families the support Mencap provides is not restricted to a particular time or place and is agreed with everyone involved. We provide support staff to sleep over in the family home if needed.

Enjoyable and meaningful. To give people with a learning disability the chance to extend their horizons through real opportunities to try new things and to develop new networks and friends, life skills and independence. The support is based both in the community and at home. Activities may be whatever people want to do. In turn, families and carers get some time to pursue their own interests. 

Flexibility. We support individuals through transition, preparing them for greater independent living. We also support young people with complex needs who may require two-to-one staffing. Our approach enables the whole family to plan how the support will benefit them. We believe that one size doesn't fit all.