Identifying facilitators and barriers associated with caring for individuals with intellectual disability who were at risk of hospital admission

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to explore the experiences of professional carers for people with intellectual disabilities who were “at risk” of hospital admission and to identify factors which were helpful or restrictive in the support received from health-care services during this time. Design/methodology/approach Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight professional carers from NHS trusts. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. Findings Three main themes and 11 subthemes were identified. The first theme discusses the processes implemented to facilitate change while the person was at risk of hospital admission. The second theme identifies social and environmental factors increasing risk of hospitalisation. The third theme was the support received by staff. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study was the first to gather and analyse data on carer’s experiences in supporting an individual with intellectual disability who is at risk of hospital admission within the locality of Greater Manchester.