Tuesday, 17 March 2026

Sara Gorman, Learning Disability Advocate, Writer & Consultant

 

Sara Jane Gorman – Learning Disability Awareness Trainer


Purpose of My Writing

I am writing this book based on my personal experiences delivering Learning Disability awareness training at the University of Wolverhampton. Through my work with nursing and social work students, as well as health professionals, I have seen firsthand the challenges and successes in helping people understand and support individuals with learning disabilities.

This book is an extension of my website, where I share practical tips, resources, and guidance for students, professionals, and families. My aim is to make learning about learning disabilities accessible, clear, and useful, so that more people can improve support, inclusion, and understanding in everyday life.

I hope my experiences, insights, and practical strategies can help others in education, healthcare, and beyond, just as I have helped those I have trained.

Sara Jane Gorman is a dedicated Learning Disability awareness trainer and advocate. I previously delivered specialist training at the University of Wolverhampton for nursing and social work students, as well as health professionals, helping them understand the challenges and strengths of people with learning disabilities.

My training was practical, inclusive, and designed to improve everyday support, communication, and inclusion. She is passionate about equipping students and professionals with the knowledge and skills to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Sara Gorman – Learning Disability advocate, writer, and consultant. Sara delivers awareness training for families, educators, and healthcare professionals and has written and co-produced plays that highlight the challenges faced by people with learning disabilities.

Sara Gorman delivers engaging Learning Disability awareness training for families, educators, and healthcare professionals. She has written and co-produced plays that highlight the challenges faced by people with learning disabilities, using creativity to raise awareness and foster understanding. An experienced writer and consultant, Sara continually strives to provide practical guidance and support to parents, carers, and educators, championing inclusion and accessibility in all settings.

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Sara Gorman is a learning disability advocate, writer, and consultant. She develops resources and training to help families, carers, and educators support children and adults with learning differences.

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Sara Gorman, advocate and playwright, raises awareness of learning disabilities through training, writing, and creative projects, supporting families, carers, and educators.

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Sara Gorman is a disability advocate and consultant who creates accessible guides and training to help people understand and support those with learning differences.


Sara Jane Gorman – Learning Disability Awareness Trainer
Sara Jane Gorman delivers specialist Learning Disability awareness training at the University of Wolverhampton. She works with nursing and social work students, as well as health professionals, providing practical guidance and insights to improve understanding, support, and inclusion for people with learning disabilities.

1. Easy Read Textbook Version (Word/PDF)

 

Byline / Bio – Suggested

Sara Gorman, Learning Disability Advocate & Trainer

Sara Gorman is a powerful champion for the rights of people with learning disabilities. She is a member of Our Shout, a self-advocacy group in Wolverhampton. Previously, she worked for Mencap at what was then Royal Wolverhampton Mencap at Wolverhampton Science Park.

Sara’s work focuses on raising awareness, providing training, and supporting people with learning disabilities, their families, and professionals in education and care.

Welcome / Introduction (Easy Read)

  • This book is here to help you learn about learning disabilities and mental health.

  • Learning about these topics can help people understand and be kinder.

  • This book is for everyone: learners, workers, families, and anyone who wants to know more.

Who this book is for:

  • Students at school, college, or university

  • People who work in this area

  • Families, carers, and anyone who wants to learn


Why Learning Disability and Mental Health Awareness Should Be Raised Everywhere

  • Awareness should be shared with as many people and places as possible.

  • When more people understand, it helps reduce bullying and discrimination.

  • Awareness helps people support each other at school, work, and in the community.

  • Disabilities and mental health conditions are part of life and nothing to be ashamed of.

  • Early education can help children grow up kinder and more understanding.

Symbol ideas: ❤️ 🧠 🏫 πŸ‘¨‍πŸ‘©‍πŸ‘§‍πŸ‘¦ 🌍


Accessibility as a Separate Module

  • Accessibility means making learning and work easier for everyone.

  • This module shows:

    • How to make places and learning easy to use

    • Rules that help people with disabilities

    • Tips to include everyone

  • Symbols: ♿️ πŸ“š πŸ§‘‍🏫


Epilepsy and Learning Disabilities (IDD)

  • Some people have epilepsy and a learning disability.

  • This can make learning and daily life harder.

  • Important things to know:

    • Types of epilepsy

    • What can trigger a seizure

    • How to support someone safely

    • How to manage daily life

  • Symbols: ⚡ 🧠 ❤️


Anxiety

  • Anxiety means feeling very worried or nervous.

  • Learning about anxiety can help people cope.

  • Tips for teachers or helpers:

    • A learning disability does not mean low intelligence

    • Focus on each person’s strengths

    • Use simple examples

    • Show helpful strategies

  • Symbols: 😰 πŸ’‘ ✅


Learning Disability Overview

  • Learning disability means the brain works differently.

  • Key points:

    • Not About Intelligence – People can still learn

    • Unique Strengths – Some people are creative or talented

    • Different Needs – Some need help with daily life; others with school

    • Support & Success – With help, people can succeed

  • Symbols: 🧩 ✏️ 🎨 πŸ’ͺ


Learning Disability Explanation

  • Learning disabilities affect how the brain works.

  • They can affect:

    • Learning new information

    • Daily life skills (money, dressing, showering)

    • Reading, writing, and understanding

  • Everyone can learn differently

  • Symbols: 🧠 πŸ’° πŸ‘• πŸ“–


GP Training for Learning Disabilities

  • GPs (doctors) often have very short appointments

  • Some people need extra time or a follow-up appointment

  • Important:

    • Give patients time to explain

    • Make reasonable adjustments for support

  • Symbols: 🩺 ⏰ πŸ₯


Suicide Awareness

  • Families and carers need to know about suicide risks

  • Services may not always help fully, so advocacy is important

  • Teach safety, support, and awareness

  • Symbols: πŸ’” πŸ†˜ ❤️


Special Needs Training

  • This training teaches:

    • What learning disabilities are

    • Causes and types

    • How they affect life

    • Support needed

    • Strengths people may have

  • Learning goals:

    • Know about learning disabilities

    • Learn support strategies

    • Understand strengths

  • Symbols: 🧩 πŸ“š πŸ§‘‍🏫 πŸ’‘


Judging and Empathy

  • Be understanding and patient

  • Key points:

    • Everyone has unique challenges and strengths

    • Do not assume things about people

    • Include everyone in learning and life

  • Symbols: 🀝 ❤️ 🌍


2. Easy Read PowerPoint Version (Slide-Ready)

Slide 1 – Welcome / Introduction

  • This book is here to help you learn about learning disabilities and mental health.

  • Learning about these topics can help people understand and be kinder.

  • This book is for everyone: learners, workers, families, anyone who wants to learn.

  • Who it’s for: Students, workers, families, carers

  • Symbols: πŸ“ πŸ‘Ά πŸ‘©‍🏫 πŸ§‘‍πŸŽ“ ❤️ πŸ›‘️

Slide 2 – Why Awareness Should Be Raised Everywhere

  • Awareness should reach as many people and places as possible

  • Understanding helps reduce bullying and discrimination

  • Awareness helps people support each other

  • Disabilities and mental health conditions are normal

  • Early education helps children grow up kinder

  • Symbols: ❤️ 🧠 🏫 πŸ‘¨‍πŸ‘©‍πŸ‘§‍πŸ‘¦ 🌍

Slide 3 – Accessibility as a Module

  • Accessibility = easier learning/work for everyone

  • Show how to:

    • Make places and learning easy to use

    • Follow rules for support

    • Include everyone

  • Symbols: ♿️ πŸ“š πŸ§‘‍🏫

Slide 4 – Epilepsy & Learning Disabilities

  • Some people have both epilepsy & learning disability

  • Know types, triggers, support, and daily management

  • Symbols: ⚡ 🧠 ❤️

Slide 5 – Anxiety

  • Feeling very worried or nervous

  • Focus on strengths, simple examples, practical strategies

  • Symbols: 😰 πŸ’‘ ✅

Slide 6 – Learning Disability Overview

  • Brain works differently

  • Not about intelligence

  • Unique strengths, different needs, support = success

  • Symbols: 🧩 ✏️ 🎨 πŸ’ͺ

Slide 7 – Learning Disability Explanation

  • Affects learning, daily life, reading/writing

  • Everyone learns differently

  • Symbols: 🧠 πŸ’° πŸ‘• πŸ“–

Slide 8 – GP Training

  • Short appointments

  • Allow extra time if needed

  • Make adjustments for support

  • Symbols: 🩺 ⏰ πŸ₯

Slide 9 – Suicide Awareness

  • Families & carers need to know risks

  • Teach safety, support, awareness

  • Symbols: πŸ’” πŸ†˜ ❤️

Slide 10 – Special Needs Training

  • Teach: types, causes, impact, support, strengths

  • Learning goals: know, support, understand

  • Symbols: 🧩 πŸ“š πŸ§‘‍🏫 πŸ’‘

Slide 11 – Judging & Empathy

  • Be understanding and patient

  • Everyone has unique challenges & strengths

  • Include everyone

  • Symbols: 🀝 ❤️ 🌍


3. Standard Textbook Version (Full Text)

Introduction
This book provides guidance on learning disabilities and mental health. It is intended for students, professionals, families, and carers. Understanding these topics can reduce bullying and discrimination and promote inclusion. Awareness should be raised widely, teaching that disabilities and mental health conditions are normal parts of life. Early education can help children become kinder and more understanding.

Modules Include:

  1. Accessibility: strategies and legal requirements

  2. Epilepsy and IDD: causes, triggers, support, daily management

  3. Anxiety: signs, coping strategies, educational guidance

  4. Learning Disabilities: overview, types, impacts, strengths, support

  5. GP Training: patient-centered adjustments

  6. Suicide Awareness: risks, safety, advocacy

  7. Special Needs Training: understanding, strategies, goals

  8. Judging and Empathy: promoting inclusion and understanding


4. Quick Reference / Summary Version (Short Points)

  • Book purpose: Help people understand learning disabilities & mental health

  • Audience: Students, workers, families, carers

  • Key message: Awareness = reduce bullying, support each other, normalise conditions

  • Start early: Education helps children grow kinder

  • Main modules:

    • Accessibility

    • Epilepsy & IDD

    • Anxiety

    • Learning Disabilities

    • GP training

    • Suicide awareness

    • Special needs training

    • Judging & empathy

Easy Read PowerPoint Layout – Learning Disabilities, Mental Health, and Accessibility

 



Slide 1 – Welcome / Introduction

  • Write your answers in your own words.

  • Exam questions may look different from the examples here.

    • For example, they may ask you to give reasons for your answers.

  • This book does not set time limits, but colleges and exam boards usually do.

  • This book is for all ages:

    • Children, young people, adults

    • Parents, families, carers

    • Learners and workers in education or care

  • Learning about learning disabilities and mental health should start in schools as early as possible.

  • Bullying and abuse can happen to anyone, by anyone, for any reason.

  • Early education can help reduce misunderstanding and promote kindness and inclusion.

Symbols: πŸ“ πŸ‘Ά πŸ‘©‍🏫 πŸ§‘‍πŸŽ“ ❤️ πŸ›‘️


Slide 2 – Accessibility as a Separate Module

  • Accessibility means making learning and work easier for everyone.

  • This module will show:

    • How to make places and learning easy to use

    • Rules that help people with disabilities

    • Tips to include everyone

Symbols: ♿️ πŸ“š πŸ§‘‍🏫


Slide 3 – Epilepsy and Learning Disabilities (IDD)

  • Some people have epilepsy and a learning disability.

  • This can make learning and daily life harder.

  • Important things to know:

    • Types of epilepsy

    • What can trigger a seizure

    • How to support someone safely

    • How to manage daily life

Symbols: ⚡ 🧠 ❤️


Slide 4 – Anxiety

  • Anxiety means feeling very worried or nervous.

  • Learning about anxiety can help people cope.

  • Tips for teachers or helpers:

    • A learning disability does not mean low intelligence

    • Focus on each person’s strengths

    • Use simple examples

    • Show helpful strategies

Symbols: 😰 πŸ’‘ ✅


Slide 5 – Learning Disability Overview

  • Learning disability means the brain works differently.

  • Key points:

    • Not About Intelligence – People can still learn.

    • Unique Strengths – Some people are creative or talented.

    • Different Needs – Some need help with daily life; others with school.

    • Support & Success – With help, people can succeed.

Symbols: 🧩 ✏️ 🎨 πŸ’ͺ


Slide 6 – Learning Disability Explanation

  • Learning disabilities affect how the brain works.

  • They can affect:

    • Learning new information

    • Daily life skills (money, dressing, showering)

    • Reading, writing, and understanding

  • Everyone can learn differently.

Symbols: 🧠 πŸ’° πŸ‘• πŸ“–


Slide 7 – GP Training for Learning Disabilities (UK Focus)

  • GPs (doctors) often have very short appointments.

  • Some people need extra time or a follow-up appointment.

  • Important:

    • Give patients time to explain

    • Make reasonable adjustments for support

Symbols: 🩺 ⏰ πŸ₯


Slide 8 – Suicide Awareness

  • Families and carers need to know about suicide risks.

  • Services may not always help fully, so advocacy is important.

  • Teach safety, support, and awareness.

Symbols: πŸ’” πŸ†˜ ❤️


Slide 9 – Special Needs Training

  • This training teaches:

    • What learning disabilities are

    • Causes and types

    • How they affect life

    • Support needed

    • Strengths people may have

  • Learning goals:

    • Know about learning disabilities

    • Learn support strategies

    • Understand strengths

Symbols: 🧩 πŸ“š πŸ§‘‍🏫 πŸ’‘


Slide 10 – Judging and Empathy

  • Be understanding and patient.

  • Key points:

    • Everyone has unique challenges and strengths

    • Do not assume things about people

    • Include everyone in learning and life

Symbols: 🀝 ❤️ 🌍

Introduction – Easy Read

 


  • Write your answers in your own words.

  • Questions in exams may look different from the examples in this book.

    • For example, they might ask you to give reasons for your answers.

  • This book does not set time limits, but colleges and exam boards usually do.

  • This book is for all ages:

    • Children, young people, and adults

    • Parents, families, and carers

    • Learners and workers in education or care

  • Learning about learning disabilities and mental health should start in schools as early as possible.

  • Bullying and abuse can happen to anyone, by anyone, and for any reason.

    • It is important to know how to keep safe and support each other.

Symbol ideas: πŸ“ πŸ‘Ά πŸ‘©‍🏫 πŸ§‘‍πŸŽ“ ❤️ πŸ›‘️

Learning Disabilities, Mental Health, and Accessibility Overview

 


1. Accessibility as a Separate Module

  • Create a separate module on accessibility for students, workers, and professionals.

  • Include practical strategies, legal protections, and inclusion techniques.

  • Emphasize real-life applications and easy-to-understand guidance.


2. Epilepsy and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Overview

  • Overview of how epilepsy intersects with IDD.

  • Topics include:

    • Types of epilepsy

    • Common triggers

    • Support strategies

    • Management techniques for daily life

  • Highlight importance of individualized support and monitoring.


3. Anxiety Easy Read Module

  • Designed for accessible learning using Easy Read, symbols, and simplified text.

  • Trainer Notes:

    • Emphasize that learning disability ≠ low intelligence

    • Highlight individual strengths

    • Use simple, clear examples and symbols

    • Discuss practical support strategies in school or work


4. Learning Disability Overview

  • Key Distinctions:

    • Not About Intelligence: A learning disability does not mean a person cannot learn; their brain works differently.

    • Unique Strengths: Individuals may excel in creative arts (painting, drawing) or other specific areas.

    • Diverse Needs: Some may require help with daily living skills, while others may only struggle with specific academic tasks.

    • Support & Success: With proper, tailored intervention, individuals can overcome challenges and lead successful lives.


5. Learning Disability Explanation

  • Key Characteristics and Impacts:

    • Brain-Based Differences: Affects the central nervous system, influencing how information is taken in and used.

    • Lifelong Learning Differences: Individuals may be slower learners, learn differently, or need specialized support.

    • Life Management: Can impact everyday life skills including managing money, personal care (showering, dressing), and social skills.

    • Daily Skill Impact: Affects skills such as reading, writing, and comprehension.


6. GP Training for Learning Disabilities (UK Focus)

  • Challenges in primary care:

    • GPs often have limited time; appointments may feel rushed.

    • Patients sometimes need follow-up appointments to complete treatment or discuss concerns.

    • Highlight importance of patient-centered care and reasonable adjustments for accessibility.


7. Suicide Awareness Training Modules

  • Importance of educating parents, families, and support networks.

  • Emphasize:

    • Services may not always be able to provide full support.

    • Advocacy and early intervention are critical.

    • Strategies for awareness, safety, and support should be practical and accessible.


8. Special Needs Training Outline

  • Introduction Topics:

    • What a learning disability is

    • Causes and types of learning disabilities

    • Life impact of learning disabilities

    • Support needed for individuals

    • Strengths of people with learning disabilities

  • Learning Objectives:

    • Students will gain knowledge of learning disabilities, practical strategies for support, and an understanding of individual strengths by the end of the session.


9. Judging and Empathy

  • Focus on developing understanding, patience, and non-judgmental approaches.

  • Key points:

    • Recognize each individual’s unique challenges and strengths.

    • Avoid assumptions based on behavior or performance.

    • Promote inclusive practices in education, work, and daily interactions.



πŸ“˜ Introduction (Standard Version – Polished)

 


Introduction

Welcome to this textbook and blog.

This book has been designed to support your learning and development in the field of learning disabilities and mental health.

It can be used by people studying at:
- School
- College
- University
- Or in other learning and training environments

This book aims to provide clear, accessible information to help you understand different conditions, the impact they have on people’s lives, and how to provide the right support.

Quizzes are included throughout the book to support your learning.

These quizzes are designed to:
- Help you prepare for exams
- Check your understanding
- Build your confidence

Even if your exams are different, the quizzes will still be useful and relevant.

You can use them:
- At your own pace
- At any time
- For as long or as little as you need

Answers to the quiz questions will be available on my website:

Sara’s Learning Disability and Mental Health Awareness Blog

You are also encouraged to use other sources and references to support your learning.

Learning is a journey, and this book is here to support you every step of the way.

πŸ“— Introduction (Easy Read Version)

Introduction

Welcome to this book.

This book will help you learn about:
- Learning disabilities
- Mental health

You can use this book if you are:
- At school
- At college
- At university
- Or learning in other places

This book uses clear and simple information.

It will help you:
- Understand different conditions
- Learn how people are affected
- Learn how to support others

There are quizzes in this book.

The quizzes will help you:
- Practice your learning
- Get ready for exams
- Build confidence

Even if your exam is different, the quizzes will still help you.

You can use the quizzes:
- Any time
- At your own speed
- For as long as you need

The answers are on my website:

Sara’s Learning Disability and Mental Health Awareness Blog

You can also use other books or websites to help you learn.

Learning takes time.

This book is here to help you.

Preface



This book is very important to me.


I have learning difficulties and mental health challenges.

I understand how hard life can be when people do not understand you.


Sometimes people judge instead of helping.

This can make people feel alone and misunderstood.


That is why I wrote this book.


I have worked with many different groups of people.

I have met children, parents, teachers, and people with disabilities.


I listened to their stories.

Their experiences helped me create this book.


This book is about real people.


It includes people with:

- Autism

- Dyslexia

- ADHD

- Anxiety

- Physical disabilities


It explains how these conditions can affect everyday life.

It also shows how we can support and understand each other.


In this book, you will find:

- Stories

- Poems

- Helpful tips


The book uses simple words.

Some parts may include pictures to help understanding.


Some topics in this book are difficult.


These include:

- Bullying

- Feeling sad

- Self-harm


These are real experiences for many people.


If you feel upset while reading:

- You can take a break

- You can talk to someone you trust


This book is for everyone.


It is for:

- Students

- Families

- Teachers

- Friends


You do not need to be an expert.


You only need to be:

- Kind

- Open to learning


Thank you for reading this book with me.


I hope it helps you understand others

and see the world more kindly.


Sara Gorman

Sara Gorman, Learning Disability Advocate, Writer & Consultant

  Sara Jane Gorman – Learning Disability Awareness Trainer Purpose of My Writing I am writing this book based on my personal experiences del...