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More should be done to address the spiritual needs of people with learning difficulties, according to a report from a learning difficulties charity, writes Clare Jerrom.

Services currently cater for people’s physical and occupational needs, but spirituality is a neglected area, says the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities.

The report by Dr John Swinton from the University of Aberdeen found that spirituality is important to people with learning difficulties, according to consultations with family carers and service providers.

Head of the foundation Hazel Morgan said: "People with learning disabilities are socially marginalised, and the opportunities for them to be supported to find meaning in their lives can be severely limited.

"Meeting people’s spiritual needs is essential if person-centred care is to have any real meaning. The foundation would like to see both services and faith communities enabling people with learning disabilities to experience and explore spirituality," she added.

The foundation recommends that people with learning difficulties should be given accessible information to help them make informed spiritual choices, and must be supported to make and sustain meaningful friendships.

It adds that agency policies need to address ways of meeting spiritual needs and train staff to do this, and faith communities need to be aware of their role to help meet the needs of people with learning difficulities.

'A Space to Listen' is available from www.learningdisabilities.org.uk

Or 020 7535 7400.