Researchers have teamed up a disability charity to produce a DVD to help improve support for people with learning disabilities.
Research into people with learning disabilities, conducted by a team at the University’s Tizard Centre and its Personal Social Services Research Unit, has shown how support that is person-centred can promote social inclusion, growth in independence and choice and control for those with learning disabilities.
The research revealed that just one third of people in the study sample – including those with complex needs such as autism or challenging behaviour – were consistently receiving active support that was centred on their needs.
The collaboration, between the Kent team and national disability charity United Response, resulted in a new range of resource materials aimed at promoting person-centred approaches. This includes the DVD, titled Promoting Person-Centred Support and Positive Outcomes for People with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The DVD addresses key issues around active support, considering how it can best be implemented, and draws on good practice demonstrated by support staff and managers within United Response. Launched on 24 July by United Response, its key theme is that active support is an enabling relationship between staff or family carers and the person they support. This allows people with learning disabilities to develop skills and independence, experience real choice and control in their lives and become a valued member of their community.
For more information please contact Dr Julie Beadle-Brown at the Tizard Centre.