Emerald publication have just published a journal article titled “Workforce development: perspectives from people with learning disabilities” in Tizard Learning Disability Review.
A massive thank you to the Foundation for people with learning disabilities for carrying out this amazing work for us if you want to read the report please go to:
https://idhekss.wordpress.com/reports/id-hee-project-reports/#2
Thank you to Jill Davies getting the finding from this work published in the Tizard Learning Disability Review.
Abstract:
Purpose
Research into the skills and competencies required by staff working with people with learning disabilities has concentrated on staff views. The purpose of this paper is to explore what people with learning disabilities want from the workforce supporting them. The evaluation was commissioned by Health Education England working across Kent, Surrey and Sussex (HEE KSS).
Design/methodology/approach
An easy read questionnaire, co-produced with people with learning disabilities, was completed with 70 participants, 65 of whom attended one of 10 workshops. Two questionnaires were also completed by parents on behalf of their child. The workshops also allowed for open discussion.
Findings
People with learning disabilities value a workforce with a positive attitude, with staff who are skilled in supporting people to gain independence and have a voice.
Research limitations/implications
Findings are relevant to staff recruitment, matching of staff to services and staff training.
Originality/value
Although there is some previous research around service user views, this evaluation had a larger sample size. The findings were similar to previous studies, particularly around the kind of qualities required from staff, which were the ability to listen, have trust and be able to learn specific skills. Although the highest representation was from young people and young adults, participants ranged from 12 to over 65 years. Differences in views according to participant age ranges are also noted.
To access the article go to : https://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/abs/10.1108/TLDR-04-2017-0018#
Workforce Development for & with People with Intellectual Disabilities 