What characteristics do service users with intellectual disability value in direct support staff within residential forensic services?

Abstract

Background This study explores the perceptions of a group of adults with intellectual disability regarding direct support staff.

Method Semi-structured interviews relating to experiences of direct support staff were developed from two focus groups. These interviews were conducted with 11 adults with intellectual disability residing within a forensic inpatient service.

Results Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) revealed two superordinate themes; namely, staff relationship factors and positive and negative attributes of staff. The participants valued relationships with staff based on qualities such as honesty, trust, and a caring, nurturing manner that enabled individuals to feel safe. Staff characteristics such as immaturity, inexperience, and a short temper appeared to lead to feelings of discontentment amongst the participants.

Conclusions The implications of the findings are discussed in relation to clinical practice, staff recruitment, and training.

Keywords:

• intellectual disability
• secure services
• forensic
• service user views

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank all participants who took part in the study; thanks is also extended to Rebecca Fish for helpful comments on earlier drafts.