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Course Content: 

This Course aims to Introduce the concept of Learning Disabilities as a Neurodevelopmental Condition. We will discuss the impact of having a learning disability across the life span as well as being in contact with the Criminal Justice System. Then we will look at specific evidenced based strategies and tools you can use to support the Intermediary role. We will also look at appropriate questioning for people with learning disabilities.

1. An Introduction to Learning Disabilities and Neurodevelopment. This session aims to explain the diagnostic process. Identify differences in neurodevelopmental conditions and understand the broad areas for consideration.
2. Communication differences in children with learning disabilities. Lizzie will present some information to help us think about the communication skills of children and young people with a learning disability. We will discuss how a learning disability impacts on language development as well as functional abilities such as daily living tasks.
3. We will explore some of the support systems in place within education and discuss other factors that have a significant impact on the child’s development such as childhood adverse experiences and the effects of trauma on language development.
4. We will discuss some practical ideas for assessment and supportive strategies to ensure that the child/young person can access information and have the means they need to communicate.
5. Communication differences in Adults with Learning disabilities (LD). We will consider the communication differences we see in adults with LD and how we as Intermediaries may need to adapt out communication to meet their needs.
6. We will discuss the legislation on Reasonable adjustments outside of the Justice System and how we can apply this. We will discuss the concept of trauma and how this continues into adulthood, and the consequences of this. We will consider useful assessment tools, as well as possible recommendations, and questioning styles appropriate for this group of people.
7. Communication needs relating to the Justice System. Identifying learning disabilities and where Intermediaries and special measures are required.
8. We will consider communication screening of adults and children in custody.We will consider the impact of trauma in these cases as well as recommendations made to the Court. We will also look at what a liaison and diversion Communication Profile might look like and its contents. We will also consider how this relates to the Intermediary role.
9. Question and answer session; case discussions. Editing questions for people with learning disabilities.

Course Aims/Objectives:

1. To provide an introduction to Learning Disabilities and Neurodevelopment.
2. The diagnostic process.
3. Broad areas of consideration.
4. To understand the communication differences in Children with Learning Disabilities.
5. Provide strategies and tools to aid Intermediary assessment and recommendations for children with Learning Disabilities.
6. To understand communication differences in Adults with Learning Disabilities.
7. To provide strategies and tools to aid Intermediary assessment and recommendations for adults with learning Disabilities.
8. To delve deeper into the experiences of children and adults across the criminal justice system.
9. To discuss the SLT role in liaison and diversion: a new service for people in Cornwall incorporating mental health needs, learning disabilities and the justice system.
10. Liaison and diversion case examples and how this role impacts on the Intermediary Role.
11. To consider complex questioning and editing questions.

Course Method:

The workshop is run in the form of online presentations. The presenters will present information and will invite high levels of participation and sharing of knowledge and ideas.  Prepared slides / handouts provide information to inform the discussions.

The following materials are provided:

• Timetable
• Glossary of terms
• Power point presentations
• Guidance for further reading-Bibliography