Our research


Determinants of health and inequalities


Through this programme of research, we collect information and evidence to build understanding of the health and health care inequalities experienced by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

We do this by:

  • Reviewing existing evidence through systematic reviews and meta analyses
  • Analysing available statistical data including routinely collected health and population census data
  • Monitoring and assessing health trends for people with learning disabilities
  • Contributing to the increased visibility of people with learning disabilities in public health data by working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, carers and supporters to include their voices in our activities and outputs.

Read about our research projects here

Solutions focused research


This research programme uses evidence from epidemiology and evidence syntheses, and observations from clinical practice to design complex health improvement interventions that can be tested using clinical trials. Complementary research is required concerning the implementation of complex interventions in services, to increase access to the help people need. We also seek solutions to issues that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities identify as challenges to their health and wellbeing. There is a commitment to including people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in all our research projects and to work in partnership with Disabled People's and Third Sector Organisations to influence policy and practice.

Read about our research projects here.