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Learning disabilities : services

Critical issues for service planners and providers of care for people with Down's syndrome and dementia

The role of service planners and providers of care is one that cannot be understated while considering the future needs of people with Down's syndrome and dementia. This discussion paper raises critical issues that need to be addressed along with suggestions as to how they may be met with.

Thu, 07/20/2017 - 15:15

Current perceptions of respite care: experiences of family and informal carers of people with a learning disability

Access to regular, high-quality respite care has a beneficial impact on a carer’s ability to fulfil their caring role, but provision varies widely. The current study aims to report family and informal carers’ perceptions of respite care services offered to them by their local authority. A mixed method, triangulated design, yielded both quantitative and qualitative data. Members of a parent/carer federation were sent a questionnaire which included a section on ‘respite care’; 151 of 647 responded. Two focus groups were held with 15 carers who had previously completed the questionnaire.

Thu, 07/20/2017 - 15:10

Learning disabilities and valuing informal carers

Informal carers are not always recognized for the role they play in supporting those with a disability, including learning disabilities. However, their inclusion in the way in which health services are provided can be crucial in ensuring that the best possible standards of care are offered. This article looks at the definition of formal and informal care and discusses how support workers and health professionals more broadly can improve the experiences of informal carers and those with learning disabilities.

Thu, 07/20/2017 - 15:08