Cygnet Bed Hub: 0808 164 4450
Social Care Referrals: Make a referral
Cygnet Bed Hub: 0808 164 4450
Social Care Referrals: [email protected]

Physical Health and Social Care: why it is vital

It is well-established that individuals with learning disabilities and/or mental health needs experience significantly poorer physical health outcomes compared to the general population. Data consistently shows that this group faces a reduced life expectancy.

Given this, we are committed to prioritising and promoting good physical health for those we support in social care. We recognise that physical health is fundamental to maintaining independence, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life.

Good physical health empowers individuals to carry out daily activities, engage socially, and live with greater autonomy.

Preventable and manageable conditions—such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and infections—can be addressed through timely and proactive interventions, reducing the risk of complications.

Physical and mental health are intrinsically linked; poor physical health can contribute to mental health challenges including depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal.

Proactive health care helps prevent illness, reduces the need for emergency interventions, and minimises hospital admissions.

Cygnet’s Commitment to Addressing Health Inequalities: Recognising LeDeR Findings

Cygnet acknowledges and supports the findings of the LeDeR programme in identifying and addressing the significant health inequalities faced by individuals with learning disabilities and/or autism. We are committed to embedding these insights into our practice to improve health outcomes and reduce avoidable harm.

Physical Health Provision in Cygnet Social Care Services

We are a dedicated team of nurses focused on enhancing the health and wellbeing of individuals residing in Cygnet’s social care services. Our proactive and person-centred approach directly contributes to improved outcomes and quality of life for those we support.

Improved quality of life through better access to healthcare services and implementation of reasonable adjustments.

Support the early identification and intervention for deteriorating physical health using screening tools (e.g., bowel, breast, prostate).

Preservation of dignity through respectful, person-centred care that promotes autonomy and choice.

Enhanced health outcomes, supporting both longevity and quality of life.

Specialist Support

We provide clinical advice on to internal teams and external professionals, including acute and community healthcare providers, GPs, and social services.

We offer guidance on intervention and support plans, ensuring they are informed by current needs assessments, evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and whole-system considerations—including physical, social, cultural, psychological, spiritual, genetic, and environmental factors.

We deliver health education and promotion, including the development and facilitation of learning resources tailored to service needs.