BY JACK WELCH

UNLIKE many lifetime health conditions, having a diagnosed learning disability is not always detectable on the surface alone.

Many are able to achieve great things in their lives however, one of the problems I feel is the public understanding about what defines a learning disability.

Mencap define a learning disability as 'a reduced intellectual ability and difficulty with everyday activities – for example household tasks, socialising or managing money – which affects someone for their whole life'.

This week marks the return of learning disability week, with a focus this year to ensure the recently elected politicians are paying attention to the needs of those with a condition and improve their chances in life.

Encompassing a number of conditions from autism to Down’s Syndrome, the spectrum of impact is broad and wider awareness on the subject is vital more than ever.

Evidence has already recorded less than 10 per cent of those with a known diagnosis are employed and more likely to have less qualifications during education.

With a presence in Dorchester and Bridport already, Mencap this year created and ran the successful ‘Hear My Voice’ campaign which inspired this year’s theme of the week.

Carol Burgess, regional engagement officer for the South West, who ran an awareness event in Dorchester this week said that it was good to be out in the public domain 'so the wider community can see what people with a learning disability can achieve'.