Scottish Annual Health Checks
Annual health checks for people with learning disabilities were launched in Scotland on 20 May 2022 and should be offered to all people with a learning disability (in Scotland) by 31 May 2023.
This page provides a range of information and resources to help you learn more about annual health checks and your role in supporting them.
Introduction to Scottish Annual Health Checks
The Scottish Government (2022) defines an annual health check as “a targeted invitation for a yearly check-up of the person with a learning disability’s health.”
The Scottish Government advise that health checks are:
- for people aged 16 years and over with a learning disability
- carried out by a registered nurse or registered medical practitioner only
- other health professionals involved in the person’s care can assist the process
- a person with a learning disability can have a nominated person present at the health check
This video provides an introduction:
The Scottish Health Check for Adults with Learning Disabilities is the approved format for use in Scotland. Providers are required to maintain a register of adults with learning disabilities. If a person does not respond to a health check invite, providers must issue an invite at least another two times annually.
You can access further information on the annual health checks for people with learning disabilities (Scotland) directions 2022 here.
A trauma informed approach is essential when supporting annual health checks. For more information about trauma informed approaches access: NES national trauma training programme.
Annual Health Checks - Learning and support resources
There are several aspects involved in understanding and delivering annual health checks. This document provides an overview of the learning and support resources available from NES and partner organisations. Access it here:
Resources related to Annual Health Checks
