Do you see me? – Learning Disability Week 2026
16 June 2026
This Learning Disability Week (Monday 15th June to Sunday 21st June 2026), we’re joining forces with individuals and organisations from across the globe to ensure people with a learning disability are seen, heard, and valued.
According to data published by the College of Optometrists, people with learning disabilities and autism are at a significantly higher risk of undiagnosed and untreated eye conditions, with many experiencing difficulties when accessing traditional hospital-based eye care.
It is estimated 800,000 people with learning disabilities are living with a sight problem in the UK, and as many as half are not getting the support they need.
The Easy Eye Care Pathway for People with Learning Disabilities and/or autism uses the skills of primary care optometrists and dispensing opticians and aims to improve local access to eye care by delivering necessary adjustments.
Zoe Richmond, Clinical Director at LOCSU, highlighted the importance of ensuring eyecare remains accessible to all: “There’s lots of evidence to show that people with a learning disability face significant barriers to accessing eye care.
“This can lead to avoidable sight loss simply because someone hasn’t had a sight test. All those delivering and planning care need to ensure services are truly accessible for all people.”
LOCSU has also recently shared a case study demonstrating the effectiveness of the pathway commissioned in London.
The South East London Easy Eye Care Pathway delivers personalised eye care through WOPEC accredited optometrists, utilising an upskilled workforce to ensure high-quality care.
The pathway reduces barriers to routine eye care by offering extended appointment times, flexible delivery models and accessible communication formats – supporting the needs of people with learning disabilities and autism across six south east London boroughs.
For more information about Learning Disability Week, please visit Mencap’s website here.