The focus of our interdisciplinary research is on learning disabilities (intellectual disabilities/mental handicap) from different perspectives. Research to date has had the following main themes. First, the relationship between specific genetically determined neurodevelopmental disorders and patterns of development and associated co-morbidities. Research projects have included studies of Prader Willi Syndrome and the associated eating disorder and risks of psychiatric illness; and investigations of the links between Down's syndrome and the high risk for developing Alzheimer's disease. Secondly, studies investigating the interface between people with learning disabilities and the law. This has included research to inform the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and to investigate offending by people with learning disabilies. Thirdly, sociological studies broadly on the theme of 'citizenship' with respect to people with learning disabilities. Since 2008 our group has been part of the NIHR CLAHRC.
