An easy read guide to an important problem that is often difficult to talk about.
Constipation is a serious health risk for people with learning disabilities, yet it is still not taken seriously enough. Around half of all people with a learning disability or autism experience constipation, and LEDER (Learning from Lives and Deaths Review) reports have found that people die as a direct result. Many of these deaths were preventable.
This new Easy Read booklet was created in memory of Estelle O'Hanlon, a young woman who died from the condition. It was developed in partnership with Muntsy's Day Opportunities in Portland, Dorset, with guidance from Dorset Council and NHS Dorset.
The booklet explains what constipation is, how to recognise the signs, and crucially - what to do about it. It covers diet, hydration, exercise, toilet habits, when to see a GP, and medicines. A section for carers and professionals highlights how easy it is to miss the signs in people who cannot communicate their symptoms. The booklet was published in April 2026.
Written in plain, accessible language with supportive images throughout, it is designed to be used independently or with support, and to give people with learning disabilities real, practical tools to protect their own health.
Clare is a Citizen Network Fellow who designs Easy Read and accessible information for people with learning disabilities. Her customers include local and national government, museums and universities. She also edited Everyday Citizenship and the Citizenship Manifesto. This booklet about constipation is one of many projects through which Clare helps organisations to make their communications inclusive, engaging and effective.
Muntsy's is an independent day service for adults with learning disabilities or additional support needs. It was founded in 2007, and was the first of its kind in the area. Based across Portland, Dorchester, and Weymouth, Muntsy's runs community groups designed around the needs and aspirations of its members, supporting them to develop their independence and achieve their own goals.
The service is led by a team of qualified teachers with deep experience in special educational needs, bringing together skills from education, the arts, care, and industry. Every programme is tailored to the individual, and members are actively involved in shaping the service itself.
Muntsy's worked with Clare Tarling to co-develop this booklet, helping to ensure the content is genuinely accessible and relevant to the people it is designed to support. Estelle attended Muntsy’s regularly, so producing this resource to prevent it happening to others is very close to their hearts.
Read and download the free pdf in your browser, link below.
health & healthcare, Inclusion, intellectual disabilities, England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Paper
