Training programme aims to increase access to cancer screening for people with learning disabilities

A programme developed in South Yorkshire aims to significantly increase access to cancer screening for people with learning disabilities.

The NHSE Public Health Programmes Team, in conjunction with South Yorkshire ICB LeDeR ECHO Programme, is spearheading work to raise awareness of all national screening and immunisation programmes within the region’s health and social care population.

Chamwood Court, an eight-bedded care home for people with learning disabilities in Sheffield, was one of the first to complete targeted training for Learning Disability providers and carers that has been developed

Manager Toni Sanderson said: “After having the cancer screening training I realised there was much more we could be doing to ensure that our residents don’t miss out on these vital cancer screening checks.

“We started looking at what screening our residents were eligible for, what they had had, and then talked through the screening process with them, using easy-read guides and reasonable adjustments to support uptake and to then book appointments.

“We have developed person-centered screening care plans for all residents. Screening results are now logged, which details what cancer screening each resident is eligible for; when they had their last screening, the results, and when the next one is due.

“We can ring their GP or a breast or bowel screening service provider so we can advocate for residents if they have not had an invite, so they don’t get lost in the system.” 

“We identified a passionate member of staff who is now our screening champion. She explains and helps residents to complete the breast and testicular cancer checks monthly, documenting any concerns which can be raised with their GP.

“We also supported three male residents to go through an online checker with them to identify their risk of prostate cancer. One of our gentlemen came out as very high risk and we contacted the GP to enquire about a PSA test which was completed, and going forward will be completed annually as part of annual health reviews”.

“Their GP will ensure that, if each male resident consents, they have a testicular cancer check during their annual health review.”

Alongside the training, Sheffield is piloting targeted increased support for those with Learning Disabilities who are due to be invited for their next breast screen. 

This work has included the development of easy-read invitations and supporting information and telephone scrips utilising behaviour science nudge techniques developed in conjunction with the South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw Cancer Alliance commissioned behaviour science company Caja.  

As part of the pilot project awareness-raising initiative, a dedicated physiotherapist who works into local provider services, receives a list of women who are flagged as Learning Disability who have recently been invited for breast screening. 

She contacts those with a learning disability background living on their own, with carers or in a care home setting, looking at consent, capacity, reasonable adjustments and their ability to access screening.

Anita Winter, South Yorkshire ICS Health Inequalities Lead, said: “We want to try and link cancer screening into each individual’s annual health check to make sure that, for example, if a woman can’t access breast cancer screening, the GP or someone from the practice is aware of this and where possible, can do a physical health check. “

“We have developed training which demonstrates techniques and supports carers in conducting physical observations and checks during personal care.”

Photo caption: Chamwood Court Manager Toni Sanderson (l) with team leader Shelley Cutting