How we define a Learning Disability -The term is used in relation to individuals who have the following 3 core characteristics:

• A significant impairment of intelligence, IQ below 70
• A significant impairment of adaptive and/or social functioning (ability to cope on a day-to-day basis with the demands of his/her environment and the expectations of age and culture)
• Age of onset before adulthood (18 years of age)

Learning Disability is divided into four classification groups: Mild, Moderate, Severe and Profound. The diagnosis of profound and multiple learning disability (PMLD) is used when the individual has more than one impairment (i.e., sensory, physical, complex health needs, mental health issues) with the most significant being a learning disability. People with PMLD will require support from a carer/s to assist them with most areas of everyday life, such as eating/drinking, washing/dressing and going to the toilet.