What characteristics do service users with intellectual disability value in direct support staff within residential forensic services?
BACKGROUND
This study explores the perceptions of a group of adults with intellectual disability regarding direct support staff.


METHODS
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.
Calderstones NHS Trust, Whalley, Lancashire BB7 9PE, UK. rachaelclarkson@yahoo.co.uk
Rachael
R
Clarkson
Glynis H
GH
Murphy
Jon B
JB
Coldwell
David L
DL
Dawson
D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D005260:Female; D005555:Forensic Psychiatry; D019538:Health Care Surveys; D006379:Helping Behavior; D006801:Humans; D008607:Intellectual Disability / Q000523:psychology*; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008605:Mental Health Services; D008875:Middle Aged; D011361:Professional Competence; D012112:Residential Facilities; D013222:State Medicine; D035502:Trust; D055815:Young Adult