This article explores some of the existing research on the use of touch with people with learning disabilities. This literature review was undertaken prior to a project to develop a staff training package to increase knowledge of touch. The first part reviews the role of touch in human development and its possible contribution in behavioural manifestations. The second part discusses touch in terms of its therapeutic role and other aspects of its use in behaviour management. The review indicates that there may be an identifiable need for increasing staff perceptions of their use of touch and helping them develop an awareness of the influence of their practice with this group of service users.

This project explores the concepts of the touch that are used in the care of people with complex needs, as held by staff in day care settings. It was undertaken to establish a baseline before the development of a local interactive training package for staff in these units. Three main themes about touch in care emerged from analysis of the data from five staff focus groups. These themes were experience of touch; the influence of service users on staff’s behaviours; and staff’s concerns about touch. Analysis of the themes also suggested that the culture of the use of touch may be different between day service units within the same locality.

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