The social history of learning disability is made up of many topics or themes.  

We have picked out a few important ones. There are many others!  

In the sidebar, if you click on the title you will find out about the topic.  

For each topic, there is information which may include:  

• a summary of its history 
• present day issues 
• conference papers 
• publications (such as books, articles, websites and reports) 
• resources (such as archives, educational materials) 
• research projects 
• news  

Also, please use the search box. You may find more information on a topic listed here, or on other topics of interest.  

Language 

In the past many labels have been given to those individuals who, in the UK at least, seem to be generally known as ‘people with learning difficulties’ or ‘people with learning disabilities’ or ‘learning disabled people’.  

Many of the labels used in the past are quite rightly seen today as deeply offensive. Where you come across such words on this website, it is from our desire to be historically accurate. We are opposed to the everyday use of such language.  

We have tried to be positive, respectful and legal in our sharing of information and images by which individuals can be identified. Please do contact us if you have any concerns about the use of specific names or images. 

If you wish to use any of the material please check our Terms of Use.