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Understanding the GP Learning Disability Register and Annual Health Checks
Published
Did you know that your young person (14+) may be eligible for extra support through their GP, even if they don’t have a formal diagnosis of a learning disability?
NHS Gloucestershire encourages families to speak with their GP practice to check whether their child or young person is on the Learning Disability (LD) Register. If they are not, it is worth asking for an informal assessment to explore whether being added would be helpful and appropriate.
Why should I register my child?
Being on the LD Register means your child should be invited for an Annual Health Check (AHC). An Annual Health Check (AHC) is a free, yearly appointment offered by GP practices in England for anyone aged 14 or over who is on the LD register. These appointments are vital opportunities to review their overall health and wellbeing. It also ensures that any reasonable adjustments—like longer appointments or quiet waiting areas—are flagged and considered for future visits.
What if my child doesn’t have a formal diagnosis?
GPs are encouraged to use their clinical judgement to decide whether someone would benefit from being on the register, even without a formal diagnosis.
My child hasn’t been invited for their Annual Health Check?
Annual Health Checks are offered to young people on the LD register from the age of 14 and up. Make sure your child is on the LD register. Ask your GP if you aren’t sure. If they are, your GP should invite your child for an Annual Health Check.
My child is under the age of 14
If your child is under the age of 14, you can still register in advance. This will help the GP surgery know that they need to invite your child for their Annual Health Check when they are old enough.
What the LD Register doesn’t do
It’s important to know that being on the LD Register does not automatically grant access to specialist services like Community Learning Disability Teams (CLDTs). However, it’s still a valuable step in making sure your child’s health needs are recognised and supported in primary care.
A handy resource: LD Register Cards
Some schools and health teams can issue you with a pocket-sized LD Register Cards. These can be taken to GP practices as a simple way to start the conversation about joining the register. These cards are being shared with schools and teams across the area—ask your school or support worker if they have any available.
Get supercharged!
The Supercharged Me campaign is all about helping adults with learning disabilities take charge of their health and feel their best. It promotes Annual Health Checks and healthy living in a fun, empowering way—because everyone deserves to feel supercharged!
Find out more at superchargedme.uk
There is more information and a great video from Inclusion Gloucestershire on the Annual Health Check on the Support for Families with SEND website
You can find out more about Preparing for Adulthood and Health for young people with additional needs or disabilities. You can also feedback about services you have received – Have Your Say.