Learning from Lives and Deaths - People with a Learning Disability and Autistic People (LeDeR)

People with a learning disability and autistic people often experience poorer physical and mental health compared to the wider population. They may face barriers when accessing health and care services, and sadly, many die prematurely from conditions that could have been prevented or treated.

The Learning from Lives and Deaths (LeDeR) programme was introduced by NHS England to learn from the lives and deaths of people with a learning disability and autistic people. It is a national initiative designed to identify why premature deaths occur and what changes are needed locally and nationally to reduce health inequalities and improve outcomes.

Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) are responsible for ensuring LeDeR reviews are carried out in their area and for implementing actions that lead to service improvement. Reviews follow a standard process to examine the health and social care provided, highlighting examples of good practice and identifying areas for improvement.

LeDeR and Safeguarding

LeDeR works alongside local safeguarding processes. Reviews are only completed once all relevant investigations, including safeguarding enquiries, police investigations or coronial processes, have concluded. If safeguarding concerns are identified during a LeDeR review, these should be raised with the local Safeguarding Adults lead.

Making a Notification

Anyone can notify the LeDeR programme of the death of a person with a learning disability or an autistic person via the national website at: Report the death of someone with a learning disability or an autistic person (NHS).

Basic details about the person and circumstances are required. Notifications should be made as soon as possible after the death.