New Centre launches to amplify voices and histories of people with learning disabilities

Posted on 7 May 2026 • Education, languages and health, University news

The Open University has launched the Centre for Society, History and Learning Disabilities (SHLD). The new Centre builds on the University’s long‑standing commitment to inclusive research and social justice alongside people with learning disabilities.

SHLD grows out of more than 30 years of work by the Social History of Learning Disability Group and brings together research, learning and advocacy focused on the issues that matter most in people’s everyday lives. At its core is a simple but powerful principle: people with learning disabilities are experts in their own lives and should be directly involved in shaping research, policy and practice.

Professor Klaus‑Dieter Rossade, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, said the launch marked an important moment for the University:

“This Centre represents our commitment to research that is inclusive by design and rooted in co‑creation. It gives people with learning disabilities visibility, voice and agency, and is a strong example of The Open University’s social mission in action.”

Professor Liz Tilley, Professor of Learning Disability Studies and Director of the Centre, highlighted the significance of the launch for both the University and the wider learning disability community:

“The launch of SHLD marks an important moment in the OU’s pioneering inclusion of people with learning disabilities in higher education and research over the past three decades.

“People with learning disabilities will co‑lead the Centre, helping to shape our research priorities and methodological approaches. It’s a really exciting time for SHLD, and we’re particularly looking forward to extending our national and international partnerships to support research that makes a positive and tangible difference to people’s lives.”

What makes SHLD distinctive is not only the focus of its research, but the way that work is carried out. Inclusive principles and co-production are embedded in the Centre’s structure, which is co‑led by people with learning disabilities and Open University academics. The Centre is guided by a group of co‑leads known as the SHLD Dragons, who shape its direction and priorities together.

The Centre’s work spans four connected areas:

• history, stories and archives
• health and social care
• advocacy, rights and social justice
• inclusive arts and culture

Current projects include uncovering missing histories of people with learning disabilities from Black and minoritised ethnic communities, alongside research exploring how health and care systems can better support people across the life course.

The launch event brought together people with learning disabilities, practitioners, academics, families and advocacy organisations, creating space for discussion, reflection and ideas about what the Centre should do next.

Find out more about the Centre and explore its work on the SHLD website.