“What can we do?” Compassionate care and the potential role of clinical psychologists working within intellectual disability services post-Francis and Winterbourne

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to discuss the role of clinical psychologists in promoting compassionate cultures within intellectual disability services. Design/methodology/approach This is a commentary paper which draws on Albee’s (1983, 2000) social justice model as a theoretical framework for the primary prevention of the mental health consequences of social injustice. Findings Albee’s model conceptualises three interconnected areas including; the individual or micro-level, the organisational or meso-level and the level of social structures, policies and ideology or macro-level. Where possible, specific examples were used to highlight how the authors are currently contributing to this agenda through work that is already underway and areas for development within the service. Originality/value As a commentary paper this discusses current practice and ideas for future practice but does not present original data.

Change processes within team formulations in intellectual disabilities services: what do multi-disciplinary staff find helpful?

“…Participants may also have found the reflective space offered by the meeting process to be particularly useful and are consistent with reflective practice (Schon, 1983) and the experience of formulation in other health-care settings (McTiernan et al, 2020). It has been suggested that reflective space and practice leads to changes in staff well-being and more helpful responses to people with intellectual disabilities but this needs further exploration (Beard and Barter, 2016).…”

Consensus‐based good practice guidelines for clinical psychologists to support care staff in enabling sexual expression in people with intellectual disabilities—A Delphi study

“…Clinical psychologists can influence approaches to people with intellectual disabilities at the micro‐level (e.g. direct work with people with intellectual disabilities and their carers), the meso‐level (through leadership via training, support and supervision, and engaging with commissioners) and the macro‐level (through leading promotion of national consistency in established best practice) (Beard & Barter, ). Clinical psychologists therefore have a role to play in ensuring PWID's rights are upheld.…”