Decision making processes in learning disability services- in whose BI
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Decision making processes in Learning Disability Services - in whose Best Interests?
IRAS ID
283329
Contact name
Lorna Montgomery
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Queen's University Belfast
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
n/a, n/a
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 30 days
Research summary
The aim of the research is to explore how we determine what is in an individual's Best Interests. The research will aim to examine decision-making processes in learning disability services for individuals who lack capacity and to explore the Best Interests (BI) Principle as defined within the Mental Capacity Act (NI) 2016. The research will aim to gain a better understanding of the BI Principle (MCA (NI) 2016) and associated processes (supported decision-making /substitute decision-making). The research will aim to identify issues in current Best Interests practice and consider recommendations on how this could be implemented for future practice.
The research will involve interviewing individuals with a learning disability who have experienced Best Interest processes. This process will require time from HSCT staff to identify individuals and communicate with those individuals who would be suitable to participate in the research. It is envisaged that the interviews will take place over a number of weeks. The interviews will be facilitated in order to meet each individual participant's needs. This may include the researcher having to meet with a participant on more than one occasion in order to undertake the interview and gather the data. It is envisaged that the interviews will take place in a Health and Social Care Trust facility. The interviews may also take place in a preferred location of the participant however, the researcher will be cogniscent of the appropriateness of this location and assess the environment prior to interview. i.e. consider the location of room where interview will take place etc. The researcher will also be mindful of COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines. Based on the interviews with individuals who have experienced best interests processes, a twenty-minute electronic survey will be developed and sent to staff members employed by the HSCTs who have been involved in BI decision-making processes.REC name
HSC REC A
REC reference
21/NI/0035
Date of REC Opinion
25 Mar 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion