Two studies were undertaken to investigate grief in adults with learning difficulties. Study one involved the construction of an observer rated grief inventory which showed good reliability and certain aspects of validity. Using the grief inventory it was demonstrated that primary carers of learning disabled adults perceived a significant change in clients post bereavement. There was no association between levels of expressive and receptive language or degree of dependency upon the deceased and grief inventory ratings. Similarly no differences were established on the basis of gender,expected/unexpected death, attendance/non attendance at funeral, maintenance/change of residence as a result of bereavement or presence/absence of religious beliefs.