Ensuring that people with Down’s Syndrome can access and understand cancer screening is essential for early detection and better health outcomes. We know that screening processes can sometimes feel confusing or overwhelming, so we are committed to sharing resources that make information clearer, more accessible, and easier to follow.
Below are some helpful tools, videos, and research developments that support understanding and participation in bowel screening and other cancer screening pathways.
NHS England has produced an excellent, step‑by‑step video showing how to complete the bowel screening home test kit. It is simple, visual, and helpful for people who benefit from clear demonstrations.
Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6JINRo8aHI
This is a great resource to share with families, carers, and anyone who may need extra support to understand the process.
The Scottish Learning Disabilities Observatory (SLDO) is carrying out important work to improve access, understanding, and uptake of cancer screening. Their research focuses on identifying barriers and developing practical solutions that make screening more inclusive.
You can explore their work here: https://www.sldo.ac.uk/our-research/solutions-focused-research/cancer-screening-and-learning-disabilities/
Researchers at the University of Glasgow are developing innovative, more accessible cancer detection tools that could make screening easier for people with learning disabilities in the future.
Learn more about this technology: https://www.gla.ac.uk/colleges/mvls/news/headline_1225914_en.html
This video from a recent seminar explores the challenges people with learning disabilities face when accessing cancer screening and highlights ongoing work to address these inequalities.
Watch the seminar here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6rIk_R3Rto
People with learning disabilities often experience poorer health outcomes, partly due to barriers in accessing screening. Clear, accessible information can make a significant difference. These resources help:
We will continue to share updates and new resources as they become available