If you are living with a disability which has recently been diagnosed, or something that you’ve lived with for many years, it’s important to be able to find the right support when you need it.
Maybe you have found yourself becoming a carer to a friend or family member and you are trying to get the right support and care for them but unsure where to start.
There are many charities who can offer help, advice and support when you need it, whether its emotional support, looking at options for care, financial support or you want to talk to someone who understands what you are going through.
Disabilities are typically classified into four categories, physical, sensory, mental health and behavioural, intellectual and developmental.
These impairments can affect movement, sight/hearing, cognitive abilities, and emotional/psychological wellbeing, as well as impacting on daily life.
| Physical disabilities | are conditions which impair the body’s movement, stamina, or functioning, such as cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, or multiple sclerosis. |
| Sensory disabilities | involve impairments in the senses, most commonly visual or hearing. |
| Intellectual or development disabilities | can affect the cognitive ability to learn and the development of skills like communication, self-care, and social interaction. This can also include down syndrome or autism spectrum disorder. |
| Mental health or behavioural disabilities | are conditions that can affect mood, thinking, and behaviour, such as severe depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, or PTSD. |
Other related categories including learning disabilities or acquired brain injuries, can overlap with these main types.
Trying to find help and support can be overwhelming when faced with such life changing conditions, which is why we have put together a list of support links to help you find what you need.
These links are for the main charities, and you may find that additional help and support is available in your specific area.
General Disability Support:
Specialist & Condition-Specific Support:
- National Autistic Society
- RNID – National hearing loss charity
- RNIB – Royal National Institute of Blind People
- Spinal Injuries Association
- Downs Syndrome Association
