Mencap and NOFAS: A Preventable Learning Disability

Mencap is the UK’s largest charity for those affected by learning disabilities and provides high-quality, flexible services to help those people to live as independently as possible in a place they choose. Mencap’s vision is a world where people with learning disabilities are valued equally, listened to and included.

In 2011 the National Organisation for Foetal Alcohol Syndrome UK (NOFAS) became a subsidiary of Mencap and initiated the FASD (Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder): A Preventable Learning Disability project. NOFAS aims to be the leading organisation on the effects associated with the consumption of alcohol during pregnancy, particularly those on the brain and nervous system. The project will target Clinical Commissioning Groups, GPs that will be responsible for designing local health services in England from April 2013.

GSK’s support for the project funds production and promotion of an information package that provides engaging, accessible and practical advice for GPs and their patients. Printable fact sheets, case studies, signposting to specialist services and links to educational resources and support groups are just some examples of what the pack includes. The information contained within the toolkit will help GPs provide instant and targeted advice to a range of people requiring support, including pregnant women, parents & carers and will also support continued knowledge sharing with other healthcare professionals.