Perceptions of Day Services for people with a learning disability
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Understanding the Function of Day Services for People with a Learning Disability: An Interview Study
IRAS ID
346487
Contact name
Lucy Piggin
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 9 months, 30 days
Research summary
Day services for adults with learning disabilities have evolved significantly since the deinstitutionalisation movement of the 1960s, which saw the closure of long-stay hospitals and a shift towards community-based care (Graham, 2010). This transformation led to establishing community learning disability teams (CLDTs), which are multidisciplinary teams that include speech and language therapists, physicians, psychologists, nurses, social workers, and occupational therapists, among others.
This study aims to understand the multiple levels of meaning and purpose of day services for the community of individuals with learning disabilities. Previous studies have explored the perspectives of both staff and service users but have not examined the overlap or differences in perceptions between these groups. The study seeks to identify themes related to the perceived roles, challenges, and effectiveness of day services by conducting in-depth interviews. The goal is to provide insights that can inform more person-centred and effective service provision, addressing the gaps between policy ideals and practical implementation.
The study will involve adults with learning disabilities who access day services and staff members from a CLDT. The inclusion of both service users and providers will allow for a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics and perceptions within day services, highlighting areas for potential improvement and greater alignment with the principles of person-centred care.
REC name
London - Camberwell St Giles Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/LO/0726
Date of REC Opinion
4 Dec 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion