An estimated 120,000 people in Scotland have learning disabilities.

• Only a quarter of these (30,000) are in regular contact with local authorities and health services.

• Most people with learning disabilities live at home with their families or in the community. Figures from the Scottish Executive show nearly a quarter of those known to local authorities are living independently.

• A quarter of people with learning disabilities will have a carer aged 65 or over.

• 20 people in every 1000 have a mild or moderate learning disability with the figure rising to three to four in every 1000 for profound or multiple disability.

• The term learning disability covers a wide range of conditions, from those with very mild to profound effects.

• In the last 38 years the number of Scots with severe learning disabilities has doubled.

• Scotland spends least per head of the general population on learning disability services - just £54 compared to £59 in England and £63 in Wales.

• A learning disability can cause difficulties in communicating, learning or carrying out everyday tasks but with the right support, people with learning disabilities can achieve a great deal, including meaningful employment.

• The Scottish Executive published, The Same as You? A Review of Services for People with Learning Disabilities in 2000 which aimed to put a common vision for health and social services in place.

• Key areas addressed by the review included providing more informal day educational, leisure and employment opportunities and less formal care, more employment opportunities in general, improving access to mainstream health, social care, education and employment services and greater community participation by people with learning disabilities.

• Momentum's Workability programme currently assists around 50 people with learning disabilities every year to develop independent living skills, to access mainstream employment opportunities, to become active members of the community and to make informed choices about their lives.

For further information see our Learning Disabilities services section.

Momentum Scotland is a company limited by guarantee and having charitable status. Registered in Scotland no CS127950. Scottish Charity No SC004328. Registered Office: The Stables, Carlton Court, Glasgow G5 9JP.