Research by the University has shown adults with learning difficulties are being left to organise their own support networks, following changes to the provision of care services.
A study, which gives a snapshot of lives of people with learning difficulties in south Hampshire, has found individuals are building informal networks of their own 鈥� gathering together for solidarity, support and friendship.
Published in the 鈥楯ournal of Intellectual Disabilities鈥�, the paper , recognises the positive nature of these self-evolved networks and groups, but warns they are precarious in nature and need more formal support.
The findings聽were presented at the launch of a new group 鈥�鈥� (SPIRIT) on 25, May 2016 in Southampton.
Author , Lecturer in at the University, explains:
鈥淭he last five years has seen a move away from communal day care centres, towards user led, individual support. This switch from more static, inflexible care has been largely positive, but it has also left a gap where people are in danger from isolation, with no focal point for their care.”
Dr Power comments:
鈥淲e would not advocate returning to the model of inflexible day centres, but those implementing social care need to not only emphasise individual choice 鈥� but also help facilitate more formal ways in which people with learning difficulties can help each other, in group situations in the community.鈥�
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