Constipation in People with a Learning Disability

Course fee: HCPA Standard Member: Fully funded*
Associate/Network Member: £37.50+VAT | Non-member: £75+VAT 

One day course at HCPA
This course is designed to equip carers and support staff with the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognise, and respond to constipation in people with learning disabilities. Constipation is a common and potentially life‑threatening condition in this population, with increased risk due to communication difficulties, reduced mobility, and medication side effects.
The course provides practical, evidence-based guidance aligned with UK best practice. Participants will learn how to identify early signs and symptoms, understand key risk factors, and recognise red flags requiring urgent medical attention. It also covers effective prevention strategies, including diet, fluid intake, activity, and establishing supportive bowel routines.
Care staff will gain confidence in using tools such as bowel charts and the Bristol Stool Chart, supporting medication adherence, and working collaboratively with healthcare professionals to follow bowel care plans.
This training promotes person-centred, proactive care, helping reduce avoidable harm and improve health outcomes for people with learning disabilities.

Learning objectives

• Understand why constipation is high risk in people with Learning Disabilities
• Recognise early signs and red flags
• Know how to support to prevent the risk of constipation
• Understand medication and bowel care plans
• Know when to escalate and seek urgent help

*Please note: As per our T&C’s, this course carries a fee in the event of non-attendance, non-completion or late cancellation.
Bookings of more than two delegates per site may be amended to allow access to all member organisations at the discretion of HCPA.
Delegates who are late may not be admitted into the training and a cost incurred