We’re delighted to confirm our next NCF Learning Disability Community of Practice meeting will take place on:

Date: Friday 18 September 2026
Time: 10:30-12:00
Location: Online (Microsoft Teams)

Further to work addressing the impact of the sensory environments of in-patient settings on people placed in those settings (including the report – It’s not rocket science), the National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTi) have been exploring what this means in social care settings. In collaboration with Brandon Trust and Certitude, they’ve carried out sensory audits in a range of different places, such as group homes, supported living flats, and a respite service. Working with the teams and managers supporting people in their homes, they’ve sought to understand the environments, what can be done to make improvements, and also how teams can support people who are autistic and who also have a learning disability with their sensory experiences and needs. Teams have also had follow up feedback and training in the varied sensory experiences of autistic people.

The NDTi look forward to sharing the learning from this work and the ongoing opportunities for social care providers to build their understanding and skills in this area to make a real difference to many of the people they support.

In addition to NDTi’s session, we’ll also have a legal update from Anthony Collins Solicitors, a policy update from Liz Jones, NCF’s Deputy CEO and Policy Director. There will also be time for discussion around the themes raised in the meeting as well as a request from NCF to discuss the broader policy landscape for people with learning disabilities and autism.

Although this meeting is part of our programme of Learning Disabilities Community of Practice meetings, the content may also be relevant members of our Housing with Care and Practice & Quality Communities of Practice.

Agenda

12:30 – Welcome and introductions
12:35 – Legal update: Anthony Collins Solicitors
12:50 – Presentation: Creating Suitable Sensory Environments in Social Care Settings, NDTi
13:20 – Member discussion, including a request from NCF to discuss the broader policy landscape for people with learning disabilities and autism
13:35 – Policy update: Liz Jones, NCF Deputy CEO and Policy Director
13:50– AOB
14:00 – Close

How to register and further information

If you would like to register for this event or if you have any questions, please contact the NCF Membership Team at members@nationalcareforum.org.uk.

This meeting is for members only. If you aren’t already a NCF member, find out more on our website.

We look forward to seeing you there!